ENGLISH
REFERENCE

turn over

idiom
Meaning

To relinquish; give back.


Origin

disputed origin

From turn + over.

Examples
SIMPLE

She turned over the keys to the new owner.

CONTEXTUAL

The suspect agreed to turn over all documents related to the case to the police.

COMPLEX

Reluctantly, the aging monarch turned over the reins of power to his son, ending a reign that had lasted nearly four decades.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    Buggins's turn

    A humorous, disparaging term for the appointment of a person by rotation or promotion, on the basis of length of service (it being that person's "turn") rather than merit or level of qualification.

  2. 02

    everything one touches turns to gold

    Everything someone uses or does succeeds or becomes better.

  3. 03

    everything one touches turns to shit

    Everything someone uses or does fails or becomes worse.

  4. 04

    good turn

    A good deed; a thoughtful or selfless act.

  5. 05

    left turn

    An unexpected change from the way things seemed to be going.

  6. 06

    poacher turned gamekeeper

    A person now charged with protecting what they formerly preyed upon.

  7. 07

    serve the turn

    To suffice for one's immediate purpose or need.

  8. 08

    star turn

    An acting performance which causes the performer to become renowned.

Last updated April 17, 2026