# turn in one's grave

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/turn-in-ones-grave
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be appalled, offended or disgusted by something, despite being deceased.

## Examples

- If he saw this mess, your grandfather would turn in his grave.
- The old musician would turn in his grave if he heard his song used in that cheap advert.
- The poet, long dead but fiercely protective of his legacy in life, would surely turn in his grave to see his verses mangled for a political slogan he would have despised.

## Origin

Documented in English since 1801, perhaps from Jewish rabbinic tradition that the bones of Judah rolled about in his coffin for his shame during the Exodus. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.