Definition & Meaning of "Lay a glove on"

lay a glove on sb/sth

/lˈeɪ ɐ ɡlˈʌv ˌɒn ˌɛsbˈiː slˈaʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/

/lˈeɪ ɐ ɡlˈʌv ˌɑːn ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/

to lay a glove on sb/sth

PHRASE

to cause a loss of respect or reputation for a person or thing

to [lay] a glove on {sb/sth} definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "lay a glove on someone or something" and when to use it?

The idiom "lay a glove on someone or something" means to strike or hit them, either physically or metaphorically. The origin of this phrase is rooted in boxing, where it referred to the act of landing a punch on an opponent. The phrase has since evolved to encompass any situation where someone confronts or challenges another person or thing, whether it's through physical combat or verbal debate.

to physically hit someone, particularly while wearing boxing gloves

What is the origin of the idiom "lay a glove on someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "lay a glove on someone" has its origins in the sport of boxing, where the act of landing a punch with a glove on an opponent signifies a successful hit or blow. The expression dates back to the 18th century and is often used to emphasize the difficulty or the rare achievement of actually hitting someone, as boxing matches involve a degree of skill and agility to both attack and defend.