KICKED THE BUCKET Meaning and
Definition
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"Kicked the bucket" is a colloquial English phrase that originated in the early 19th century. It is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone's death in a figurative and often humorous manner. The phrase is considered to be a euphemism, providing a lighter and less direct way to refer to the end of someone's life.
The term combines two common elements: "kicked" and "bucket." "Kicked" refers to the action of forcefully striking or hitting something using the foot, while "bucket" represents a container often used to collect or hold water or other substances. When combined, the phrase creates a vivid and imaginative image whereby the individual metaphorically delivers a final forceful blow to an imaginary bucket, symbolizing their departure from life.
The origin of this phrase is unclear, with various theories proposed, including the use of bucket as slang for "beam" or "pulley" that used to support the bodies of executed prisoners. Regardless of its origins, the phrase has become widely adopted in English-speaking cultures as a substitute for saying someone has died.
Due to its nature as an idiom, "kicked the bucket" is commonly used in informal conversations, literature, and media to add a touch of humor or lightheartedness when discussing the sensitive topic of death.
Common Misspellings for KICKED THE BUCKET
- jicked the bucket
- micked the bucket
- licked the bucket
- oicked the bucket
- iicked the bucket
- kucked the bucket
- kjcked the bucket
- kkcked the bucket
- kocked the bucket
- k9cked the bucket
- k8cked the bucket
- kixked the bucket
- kivked the bucket
- kifked the bucket
- kidked the bucket
- kicjed the bucket
- kicmed the bucket
- kicled the bucket
- kicoed the bucket
- kicied the bucket
