He can really throw down in the kitchen.
throw down
idiomTo produce or perform (something) admirably or forcefully.
Origin
first recorded 20th c.US, popularized 1970s in street culture, from idiom throw down the gauntlet (“to issue a challenge”), used in sense “to fight, to incite a fight, to make a stand” or otherwise get about partying with abandon (first used by Jay Johnson in Detroit in 1978 - taken nationally by Cecil Franklin, manager/brother of Aretha Franklin). Sense of “accomplish something respectable” evolved from sense “to make a stand, to exhibit, to demonstrate (in a challenging way)” inherent in the fighting sense. Sense of “to make a contribution” likely influenced by sense “to make a stand”, as in “are you in?”, “will you stand up and contribute?”
The chef decided to throw down and cook a massive feast for the entire neighborhood.
When the music started, the dancer stepped onto the floor to throw down a performance that left the audience in complete silence.
- 01
lock someone up and throw away the key
To lock someone up in prison indefinitely.
- 02
stone's throw
A short distance, roughly equivalent to how far a person can throw a stone.
- 03
throw a bone to
To provide support or assistance to, especially in one particular way or to a limited extent; to make a concession to.
- 04
throw a fit
To become angry, enraged, or upset; to act or react with an outburst, as by shouting, swearing, etc.
- 05
throw a kiss
To kiss one's hand, then make a gesture as if one was throwing the kiss in a direction towards the recipient.
- 06
throw a monkey wrench in the works
Synonym of throw a spanner in the works.
- 07
throw a monkey wrench into the works
Synonym of throw a spanner into the works.
- 08
throw a spanner in the works
To introduce a problem, dilemma or obstacle, something unexpected or troublesome.
Last updated April 17, 2026