fall on one's sword

/fˈɔːl ˌɒn wˈɒnz sˈɔːd/

/fˈɔːl ˌɑːn wˈʌnz sˈoːɹd/

to fall on one's sword

to take the blame or punishment for something, even if it is not entirely one's fault, in order to protect someone else or to preserve one's honor

to [fall] on {one's} sword definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "fall on one's sword" and when to use it?

The idiom "fall on one's sword" comes from ancient Roman times, where a defeated or disgraced leader would commit suicide by falling on their sword. It has been in use in English since at least the 17th century. It is used to describe a situation where someone takes responsibility for a problem or failure, often at great personal cost.

Nearby words

fall out with bread and butter

fall over backward

fall to pieces

fall-board