English Explanatory Dictionary

put batteries in someone's back

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To enable, encourage, or incite, especially in order to do one's bidding; to fuel or spur.

Word forms

put batteries in someone's back puts batteries in someone's back putting batteries in someone's back

Etymology

From the analogy of placing batteries in a toy in order to get it to operate.

Synonyms

energise
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