Hell in a handbasket

Posted by Ms. Laurie S. Dell, B.A. on February 13, 2005

In Reply to: Hell in a handbasket posted by Jim Myers on February 09, 2005

"Hell in a handbag" refers to any person who is troublesome or hard to handle and comes in a small package. A small woman with a fierce temper would be referred to as "Hell in a hand basket". Similarly, "Hell on wheels" refers to a fast paced person who is a particular pain to deal with.

• Dear Ms. Bell Bruce Kahl 14/February/05