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to eat dirt
01
to receive insults or bad treatment, especially without ever complaining
![to [eat] dirt definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44698/original/?type=jpeg "to [eat] dirt definition and meaning")
Disapproving
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "eat dirt" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "eat dirt" is not precisely documented, but it is believed to have developed from the idea that consuming dirt or soil is a symbol of submission and humiliation.It is commonly used to convey the idea that someone should humbly accept defeat, humiliation, or acknowledge their mistake in a submissive or embarrassed manner.
Examples
He eats dirt every time he tries to show off his skills and fails miserably.
She eats dirt whenever she tries to impress others but ends up embarrassing herself instead.
02
to regret or feel bad about what one has said earlier
![to [eat] dirt definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/42806/original/?type=jpeg "to [eat] dirt definition and meaning")
Examples
After my negative prediction for the season, I certainly ate dirt when the team started out undefeated.
