Definition & Meaning of "Not have a minute to call own"

not have a minute to call one's own

/nˌɒt hav ɐ mˈɪnɪt tə kˈɔːl wˈɒnz ˈəʊn/

/nˌɑːt hæv ɐ mˈɪnɪt tə kˈɔːl wˈʌnz ˈoʊn/

to not have a minute to call one's own

PHRASE

to be so busy that one has no free time

to {not} [have] a minute to call {one's} own definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "not have a minute to call one's own" and when to use it?

The idiom "not have a minute to call one's own" is believed to have originated in the late 19th century. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is extremely busy or has a lot of responsibilities, leaving them with no free time to relax or pursue their own interests.