English Explanatory Dictionary

the jig is up

English dictionary entry

Meanings

phrase
  1. Used to express that a deception, trick, or dishonest scheme has been discovered, signaling the end of the ruse.

Pronunciation

En-au-the jig is up.ogg

Word forms

the jig is up jig's up one's jig is up one's jig's up the jig's up

Etymology

Derives from the obsolete Elizabethan-era slang use of the word jig, originally meaning a lively dance, which evolved to denote a practical joke or trick.

Related words

gotcha sussed the game is up
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