Browse phrases beginning with: [A][B][C][D][E][F][G][H][I][J][K][L][M][N][O][P][Q][R][S][T][U,V][W][X,Y,Z]

Shoot through

Meaning

To abscond, or depart quickly.

Origin

This expression is commonplace in Australia and New Zealand and is becoming more used elsewhere due to the influence of Australian soap-operas like Neighbours and Home and Away.

The first record I can find of it in print is a definition in the Australian pin-up magazine Pix, which was published in Sydney in September 1947 by Associated Newspapers Limited:

"Shoot through, escape, abscond."

For a popular magazine to have felt the need to define the expression it couldn't have been very old at that date.

Phrasefinder is also on &

Tudor Phrases and Sayings - a book on the meanings and origins of the phrases and sayings that Shakespeare and Henry VIII used that we use still use every day.

phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The meaning and origin of the expression: Shoot through

Shoot through

Meaning

Origin