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trick or treat
01
said by children during Halloween to request candy or other treats from the homeowner
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "trick or treat" and when to use it?
The idiom "trick or treat" is most commonly associated with Halloween traditions. Its origin can be traced back to the custom of children dressing in costumes and going door-to-door to request candies and treats. The phrase "trick or treat" is used to imply that if a treat or candy is not given, the children may play a harmless prank or "trick" as a form of playful extortion.
Examples
On Halloween night, the kids dressed as ghosts and witches went from house to house, shouting ' Trick or treat!' at each doorstep.
The Halloween party was filled with children excited to play ' trick or treat' and receive sweet goodies.
