take by storm
To seize, overpower, or captivate in a sudden and forceful manner.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The new band took the city by storm last night.”
“This simple puzzle game takes the internet by storm every few years.”
“Her debut novel took the literary world by storm, selling millions of copies in just a few months.”
“The new food delivery app is taking the suburbs by storm because it offers much faster service than any of its competitors.”
“After the designer released her first collection of recycled clothing, her unique style took the fashion industry by storm.”
“The charismatic young politician took the national stage by storm, captivating voters with a bold vision that challenged the established political order.”
Likely an adaptation of the military tactic of capturing a fortified position with a single, sudden, and overwhelming charge. The phrase has been established in English since at least the late 17th century, though it shares a conceptual lineage with the later German *blitzkrieg*. It describes a victory achieved through speed and force rather than the slow inconvenience of a siege.
- 01
any port in a storm
One should accept any passable option when time is of the essence in an adverse situation.
- 02
be taken ill
To become ill.
- 03
bug storm
A large number of insects in the air, especially when passed through by a vehicle.
- 04
calm before the storm
A period of peace before a disturbance or crisis; an unnatural or false calm before a storm.
- 05
cook up a storm
To make a big fuss, generate a lot of unnecessary talk or activity; make a scene.
- 06
cross to take up
Alternative form of cross to bear.
- 07
eye of the storm
A period of calm in a tumultuous time.
- 08
forget to take one's medication this morning
To be annoyed or irritable, or to behave in an ill-mannered way, particularly in the morning.
Last updated August 10, 2026