The idiom "come home to roost" means to face the consequences of one's actions. The word "roost" is spelled as /ruːst/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "oo" sound in "roost" is pronounced like the "oo" in "boot". The "st" at the end is pronounced as a voiceless consonant cluster, where the "s" sound is made without vibrating the vocal cords. This word is a great example of the complexities of English spelling and the importance of understanding its phonetic codes.
"Come home to roost" is an idiomatic expression that signifies the consequences or effects of one's actions catching up with them over time. It is often used to describe a situation where the negative repercussions of a decision or a past action become evident or affect the individual responsible. The phrase alludes to the habit of domesticated fowl or birds returning to their designated roosting place at night or after flying away during the day.
In a figurative sense, "come home to roost" implies that deeds, choices, or decisions made in the past, whether positive or negative, eventually manifest and affect the responsible individual in some manner. It suggests that the consequences, especially those that are unfavorable or regrettable, cannot be escaped or avoided indefinitely; they will eventually return and impact the person responsible. This phrase can convey a sense of accountability or a reminder that one cannot outrun the repercussions of their actions indefinitely.
The term is commonly used to warn individuals about the eventual consequences of their behavior, emphasizing that one's negative actions will eventually catch up to them in some way. It serves as a reminder to consider the long-term effects of one's decisions, actions, or choices and emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, responsibility, and accountability. In essence, "come home to roost" emphasizes the concept of karma or the belief that one reaps what one sows in the greater scheme of life.