English Explanatory Dictionary

catch a Tartar

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To discover someone is much stronger, much more dangerous, or much more violent than they appeared at first, especially after laying hands on them
  2. To fail in attempt to rob someone who turns out to be a stronger robber.
  3. To discover someone who cannot be controlled or disposed of more generally.

Word forms

catch a Tartar catches a Tartar catching a Tartar caught a Tartar

Synonyms

get someone for a Tartar
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