English Explanatory Dictionary

smell the barn

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To act with renewed energy or speed or to experience heightened anticipation as one approaches a destination, goal, or other desired outcome.

Pronunciation

/ˌsmɛl ðə ˈbaːn/ /ˌsmɛl ðə ˈbaɹn/ En-au-smell the barn.ogg

Word forms

smell the barn smells the barn smelling the barn smelled the barn smelt the barn

Etymology

A reference to a livestock animal returning to its barn at the end of the day, especially a horse drawing a carriage which is on the way back home.

Related words

home stretch
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