English Explanatory Dictionary

throw in the towel

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To quit; to give up.

Pronunciation

En-au-throw in the towel.ogg

Word forms

throw in the towel throws in the towel throwing in the towel threw in the towel thrown in the towel

Etymology

From the traditional signal from a boxer's support staff of throwing such an item into a boxing ring to indicate that the contestant cannot continue the match and is forfeiting to the opponent.

Synonyms

throw in the cards throw in the sponge throw up one's hands throw up the sponge

Related words

throw to the dogs throw to the wolves
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