sticks and stones
Ellipsis of sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Ignore his mean comments because sticks and stones do not really matter.”
“She told her brother to ignore the bullies, reminding him that sticks and stones are just words.”
“Though the harsh criticism stung, she maintained her composure, recalling the old adage that sticks and stones may break bones, but words cannot harm her spirit.”
- 01
beat off with a stick
To reject (a person making an unwanted amorous approach).
- 02
beat with the ugly stick
Used to describe someone who is particularly ugly or unattractive.
- 03
carrot and stick
The simultaneous rewarding of good behavior and punishing of bad behavior.
- 04
carved in stone
Unchangeable.
- 05
cast the first stone
To act self-righteously in accusing another person, believing oneself to be blameless.
- 06
clue stick
A metaphorical stick used to beat information or understanding into a slow learner.
- 07
get blood out of a stone
To do something difficult, frustrating, or pointless.
- 08
get on the stick
To get started; to begin working; to become active.
Last updated August 10, 2026