English Explanatory Dictionary

draw straws

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To decide at random by drawing (selecting randomly between) straws, sticks, etc., one of which differs from the others (typically by being shorter), held in a person's hand so as to conceal which is the different one. Typically, whoever draws the short straw must complete some undesirable task. Alternatively, whoever draws the longest straw gets a desired position.
  2. To decide by any means of chance.

Word forms

draw straws draws straws drawing straws drew straws drawn straws

Related words

cast lots draw lots draw the short straw
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