Thanksgiving is a special time full of family, feasts, fun, and grateful hearts. But did you know it’s also the perfect time to learn idioms? Idioms are silly little phrases that mean something different from what they sound like. They make language exciting—just like adding whipped cream to pumpkin pie!
For example, if someone says, “I’m stuffed!” they don’t mean they’re filled with cotton—they mean they ate a LOT! Thanksgiving idioms help kids understand everyday conversations in a fun, easy way. They’re colorful, magical, and perfect for the holidays.
Today, we’ll explore Thanksgiving-themed idioms in four playful sections. Each idiom comes with kid-friendly explanations and cute examples to help you learn them like a pro. Get ready, because this is going to be a feast of words!
🍁 1. Thanksgiving Food Idioms
Here are fun idioms inspired by Thanksgiving foods—turkey, pie, stuffing, and more!
1. Stuffed Like a Turkey
- When someone says they’re “stuffed like a turkey,” it means they ate a lot and feel very full.
- After dinner, I couldn’t move—I was stuffed like a turkey!
- Lily said she was stuffed like a turkey after her third slice of pie.
2. The Gravy Train
- This means something easy and rewarding—just like pouring delicious gravy.
- Getting extra playtime felt like riding the gravy train!
- Winning candy at school was the gravy train for everyone.
3. Easy as Pie
- Something super easy to do.
- Solving that puzzle was easy as pie!
Even my little brother did it. - Cleaning my room was easy as pie today.
- Solving that puzzle was easy as pie!
4. Bring Home the Bacon
- Means to earn something or do something important.
- Mom works hard to bring home the bacon.
- Jake brought home the bacon by winning the school contest.
5. Bite Off More Than You Can Chew
- Taking on something too big or difficult.
- I tried to decorate the whole classroom myself but bit off more than I could chew.
- Mia realized helping three friends at once was more than she could chew.
6. Apple of My Eye
- Someone who is very special.
- Grandma says I’m the apple of her eye.
- The little puppy was the apple of everyone’s eye.
7. Butter Someone Up
- Means to be extra nice so you can get something.
- Sam tried to butter up Dad to get an extra cookie.
- I buttered up my sister so she’d help me clean my room.
8. That’s the Way the Cookie Crumbles
- Sometimes things don’t go how we want.
- I lost the game, but that’s the way the cookie crumbles.
- We ran out of dessert early—that’s just how the cookie crumbles.
9. In a Jam
- Being in a tricky situation.
- I forgot my homework and got myself in a jam.
- Emma was in a jam when she misplaced her backpack.
10. Cry Over Spilled Milk
- Getting upset about something that can’t be changed.
- Don’t cry over spilled milk—just clean it up and smile!
- I dropped my cookie, but no point crying over spilled milk.
🦃 2. Thanksgiving Animal Idioms
Animals are a big part of Thanksgiving—especially turkeys! Let’s learn some fun animal expressions.
1. Talk Turkey
- Means to speak honestly or seriously.
- Let’s talk turkey about who will set the table.
- Mom said it was time to talk turkey about my chores.
2. Birds of a Feather
- Friends who are very similar.
- Emma and I are birds of a feather—we both love art.
- The twins are birds of a feather anywhere they go.
3. Don’t Be a Chicken
- Means don’t be scared.
- Don’t be a chicken—try the new game!
- I stopped being a chicken and sang at the talent show.
4. Wild Goose Chase
- A long, silly, or impossible search.
- Finding my toy in the messy room was a wild goose chase!
- We went on a wild goose chase looking for the missing marker.
5. Hold Your Horses
- Means to be patient.
- Hold your horses—we’ll eat soon!
- Dad told us to hold our horses before opening the door.
6. The Early Bird Gets the Worm
- People who start early get better results.
- I woke up early and finished homework first—the early bird gets the worm!
- Being the early bird helped me win the best seat.
7. Ants in Your Pants
- Being too excited to sit still.
- I had ants in my pants waiting for the Thanksgiving parade.
- Tim had ants in his pants during the school trip.
8. Busy as a Beaver
- Working fast and hard.
- Mom was busy as a beaver cooking Thanksgiving dinner.
- We were busy as beavers decorating the classroom.
9. Sly as a Fox
- Someone smart or sneaky.
- She solved the riddle sly as a fox!
- My brother sneaked cookies sly as a fox.
10. Fish Out of Water
- Feeling out of place.
- I felt like a fish out of water at my cousin’s school.
- Tom felt like a fish out of water at dance class.
🍂 3. Everyday Thanksgiving Idioms
These idioms aren’t about food or animals, but they’re perfect for Thanksgiving conversations.
1. Count Your Blessings
- Means to be grateful.
- At Thanksgiving, we count our blessings as a family.
- I counted my blessings when I saw all my friends together.
2. The More the Merrier
- The more people, the more fun.
- Inviting cousins to dinner makes it the merrier!
- The more the merrier during holiday games.
3. Hit the Spot
- Something that feels perfect.
- A warm meal hit the spot on a cold day.
- Hot chocolate always hits the spot in winter.
4. Break the Ice
- Helps start conversations.
- We played games to break the ice with new neighbors.
- Telling a joke helped me break the ice in class.
5. Get the Ball Rolling
- Means to get something started.
- Let’s get the ball rolling on our decorations!
- I got the ball rolling on the group project.
6. Have a Lot on Your Plate
- Being very busy.
- Mom had a lot on her plate cooking dinner.
- I had a lot on my plate preparing my presentation.
7. Spread the Word
- Tell others about something.
- Spread the word about our Thanksgiving show!
- We spread the word about the bake sale.
8. Roll Up Your Sleeves
- Get ready to work.
- Time to roll up our sleeves and clean the house.
- We rolled up our sleeves for the craft project.
9. A Blessing in Disguise
- Something that seems bad but ends well.
- Missing the bus was a blessing in disguise—I found a lost book!
- Her mistake became a blessing in disguise when she learned a new skill.
10. Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining
- Something good comes from something bad.
- Our picnic got rained out, but we had fun indoors.
- Losing the game helped us practice more—every cloud has a silver lining.
🥧 4. Thankfulness & Kindness Idioms
Perfect for the heart of Thanksgiving—being kind, helpful, and thankful.
1. Give Someone a Hand
- Means to help them.
- I gave Mom a hand setting the table.
- Jake gave his friend a hand with homework.
2. A Heart of Gold
- Someone very kind.
- My grandma has a heart of gold.
- The new student showed a heart of gold by sharing supplies.
3. Kill Them with Kindness
- Be extra kind even when someone is rude.
- I killed them with kindness by sharing my snack.
- Mia used kindness when kids were grumpy.
4. Go the Extra Mile
- To do more than expected.
- Emma went the extra mile decorating the classroom.
- I went the extra mile helping my teacher clean up.
5. Put Yourself in Someone’s Shoes
- Try to understand someone’s feelings.
- I put myself in his shoes when he looked sad.
- It’s easier to be kind when we step into someone’s shoes.
6. Warm Someone’s Heart
- Makes someone feel happy.
- My thank-you card warmed Mom’s heart.
- Helping friends warms everyone’s heart.
7. A Big Heart
- Means being generous.
- Tom has a big heart—he shares everything.
- Our teacher has a big heart for every student.
8. Pat on the Back
- Means giving praise.
- I gave myself a pat on the back for finishing chores.
- Jenna deserved a pat on the back for helping others.
5. Thanksgiving Idioms About Sharing & Caring
5.1 Lend a Hand
Helping someone makes any celebration smoother. Just like sharing chores makes Thanksgiving dinner come together faster.
5.2 The More, the Merrier
The more people join the fun, the happier everyone becomes. Thanksgiving feels extra warm when the table is full.
5.3 Pass It On
When you learn something kind or helpful, you share it with others. It spreads goodness like passing mashed potatoes around the table.
5.4 Spread the Joy
Doing something cheerful can brighten everyone’s day. It’s like adding sprinkles of happiness to the holiday.
5.5 Warm Someone’s Heart
A kind action can make someone feel special and loved. Thanksgiving is the perfect time for heart-warming moments.
5.6 Give Someone a Break
Sometimes people are tired or stressed, so letting them rest is a gift. It’s like telling someone they don’t have to wash dishes today.
5.7 A Heart of Gold
This describes someone who is super kind. Thanksgiving brings out golden hearts everywhere.
5.8 Play It Forward
Doing a good deed inspires more good deeds. One act of kindness makes another, just like dominoes tipping over.
5.9 Put Others First
Thinking about someone else’s needs before your own shows care. Thanksgiving teaches us to share more and take less.
5.10 Count Me In
This means you want to join an activity. Whether it’s helping cook or playing games, it shows excitement and teamwork.
6. Thanksgiving Idioms About Happiness & Fun
6.1 On Cloud Nine
Being extremely happy—like floating on a fluffy cloud. Thanksgiving desserts can send kids floating there quickly!
6.2 Happy as a Clam
Feeling peaceful and content. Sitting with family, laughing, and enjoying pumpkin pie does that.
6.3 Jump for Joy
Being so happy you feel like bouncing. Kids might do this when dessert is finally served.
6.4 Over the Moon
Feeling thrilled beyond imagination. Finding an extra slice of pie left just for you could make you feel this way.
6.5 In High Spirits
Feeling cheerful and full of energy. Thanksgiving games and jokes help everyone feel this way.
6.6 A Bundle of Laughs
Describes a fun, silly person who makes everyone giggle. Every Thanksgiving gathering has at least one!
6.7 All Smiles
When you can’t stop smiling because everything is wonderful. Sharing stories at the dinner table makes hearts bright.
6.8 Full of Beans
It means full of energy and excitement (not actual beans!). Kids often feel this way before a big feast.
6.9 Good Vibes Only
Everyone tries to stay positive and happy. Thanksgiving is a day for joy, not complaints.
6.10 On Top of the World
Feeling unbeatable and proud. Helping set the table or cook something tasty might make kids feel like champions.
7. Thanksgiving Idioms About Gratitude
7.1 Count Your Blessings
Remembering all the good things you have. Thanksgiving is the perfect day for this.
7.2 From the Bottom of My Heart
Saying something with deep honesty. When kids thank their family, it often comes from this place.
7.3 Give Credit Where It’s Due
Thanking people for their hard work. Especially the ones who cooked the turkey!
7.4 Big Thanks
A fun way to say “thank you very much.” It fits Thanksgiving perfectly because everything feels big.
7.5 A Token of Appreciation
A small gift or act to show gratitude. Even a homemade card counts.
7.6 Hats Off to You
A way to show respect and thanks. Like cheering for the chef who made everything delicious.
7.7 Grateful to the Core
Feeling thankful deep inside. Kids often feel this after a yummy meal and warm hugs.
7.8 I Owe You One
When someone helps you and you promise to help them later. Thanksgiving teamwork inspires this feeling.
7.9 Tip My Hat
Another way to show thanks or respect. It’s polite and old-fashioned, like Thanksgiving traditions.
7.10 Thank Your Lucky Stars
Feeling extra lucky and grateful for what you have. Thanksgiving makes those stars twinkle brighter.
8. Thanksgiving Idioms About Teamwork
8.1 Two Heads Are Better Than One
Working together solves problems faster. Thanksgiving prep needs many hands!
8.2 All Hands on Deck
Everyone helps, just like a ship’s crew. It makes cooking and decorating easier.
8.3 Pulling Together
Teamwork makes things smoother. Thanksgiving dinner is the perfect example.
8.4 Shoulder to Shoulder
Standing together to get a job done. Even setting the table becomes fun with teamwork.
8.5 A United Front
A team that sticks together. Thanksgiving families show this spirit in everything they do.
8.6 On the Same Page
Everyone knows the plan. Like when everyone agrees to start eating at the same time.
8.7 Step Up to the Plate
Taking responsibility. Kids might step up by helping serve drinks.
8.8 Join Forces
Working with others to finish something. Making pumpkin pie definitely needs multiple hands.
8.9 Pitch In
Help out wherever help is needed. It turns chores into family fun.
8.10 Pass the Baton
Sharing responsibilities. One person cooks; another sets the table—teamwork at its best.
9. Thanksgiving Idioms About Feasts
9.1 Stuffed to the Gills
Feeling super full after a big meal. Exactly how people feel after Thanksgiving dinner.
9.2 Feast Your Eyes
Look at something beautiful. The Thanksgiving table is often a feast for the eyes too.
9.3 Dig In
A fun way to say “start eating!” Everyone smiles when they hear it.
9.4 Bite-Sized
Small and easy to eat. Perfect for kids’ plates.
9.5 A Big Spread
A table full of many dishes. Thanksgiving might have the biggest spread of the year.
9.6 Good Enough to Eat
Something looks so nice you want to eat it. Even decorations can look tasty sometimes!
9.7 Makes Your Mouth Water
Food smells so good that you get hungry instantly. Turkey usually does this.
9.8 Sweet Tooth
Someone who loves desserts. Thanksgiving is heaven for sweet tooth people.
9.9 The Icing on the Cake
The thing that makes something even better. Thanksgiving dessert time is always the icing on the cake.
9.10 Gobble It Up
Eat something quickly because it’s delicious. Just like kids do with cupcakes.
10. Thanksgiving Idioms Inspired by Family
10.1 Like Mother, Like Daughter
Kids may behave like their parents. Thanksgiving brings these tiny similarities into view.
10.2 Like Father, Like Son
The same idea, but for dads and sons. Maybe both love carving the turkey!
10.3 Home Sweet Home
Feeling cozy and happy at home. Thanksgiving makes homes extra sweet.
10.4 Family First
Family is most important. Thanksgiving is built on this belief.
10.5 Close-Knit
A family that feels very connected. Thanksgiving hugs show this closeness.
10.6 Under One Roof
Everyone gathers in the same house. That’s Thanksgiving magic.
10.7 Flesh and Blood
Family members. Thanksgiving reminds everyone of their roots.
10.8 Blood Is Thicker Than Water
Family bonds are strong. Thanksgiving proves it.
10.9 Branch of the Family Tree
Every person is part of the family’s story. Thanksgiving stories bring these branches to life.
10.10 Table Talk
Fun or meaningful conversations around the dinner table. Thanksgiving is full of them.
11. Thanksgiving Idioms About Seasons & Weather
11.1 Turning Over a New Leaf
Starting fresh, like leaves in fall. Thanksgiving encourages new good habits.
11.2 Bundle Up
Dress warmly. Thanksgiving weather often needs cozy sweaters.
11.3 A Cold Snap
A quick drop in temperature. Often happens during fall holidays.
11.4 Jack Frost Nipping
Cold air pinching your face or nose. Kids feel this on Thanksgiving morning.
11.5 A Breath of Fresh Air
Something new and refreshing. Thanksgiving walks give this feeling.
11.6 Snowed Under
Having too much to do. Thanksgiving prep can feel like that!
11.7 Fair-Weather Friend
A friend who’s only around when things are easy. Thanksgiving reminds us to value real friends.
11.8 Chasing Rainbows
Trying to achieve something impossible. Thanksgiving teaches realistic goals.
11.9 Calm Before the Storm
The quiet before something busy happens. Like right before family arrives.
11.10 A Ray of Sunshine
Someone who brings joy. Every Thanksgiving has one cheerful person who brightens everything.
12. Thanksgiving Idioms About Emotions
12.1 Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve
Showing your feelings openly. Thanksgiving brings many warm emotions.
12.2 A Soft Spot
Something or someone you care about deeply. Kids may have a soft spot for pies!
12.3 A Heavy Heart
Feeling sad. But Thanksgiving usually lifts heavy hearts.
12.4 A Warm Glow
A happy, cozy feeling. Thanksgiving lights and cocoa give this.
12.5 A Happy Heart
Feeling joyful. Everything from food to family makes hearts happy.
12.6 Mixed Feelings
Feeling two emotions at once. Like being full but still wanting dessert!
12.7 A Heartbreaker
Something sad. But Thanksgiving tries to fix heartbreaks with comfort food and hugs.
12.8 Butterflies in Your Stomach
Feeling nervous. Kids might feel this when they meet new relatives.
12.9 Swept Off Your Feet
Feeling amazed. Thanksgiving surprises can do this.
12.10 Fired Up
Feeling excited and ready. Perfect for Thanksgiving games.
13. Thanksgiving Idioms About Traditions
13.1 Old Habits Die Hard
Traditions stick around. Thanksgiving traditions certainly do.
13.2 Tried and True
Something that always works. Like grandma’s pumpkin pie recipe.
13.3 Stand the Test of Time
Something that lasts for years. Thanksgiving is a perfect example.
13.4 By the Book
Following rules exactly. Some families cook turkey this way.
13.5 Break the Mold
Doing something new. Maybe trying a new dessert this year!
13.6 The Old-Fashioned Way
Doing things like people did long ago. Thanksgiving recipes often use this magic.
13.7 The Whole Shebang
Doing everything fully. Families love going all out on decorations.
13.8 Bring to the Table
Sharing your ideas or skills. Everyone brings something special on Thanksgiving.
13.9 Carry the Torch
Continuing traditions across generations. Kids learn to carry Thanksgiving traditions forward.
13.10 Stick to Your Roots
Remembering where you came from. Thanksgiving helps families honor their history.
14. Thanksgiving Idioms About Positivity
14.1 Look on the Bright Side
Finding something good in every situation. Thanksgiving encourages sunny thoughts.
14.2 Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining
Even bad things have something good inside. Thanksgiving brings comfort after hard times.
14.3 Light at the End of the Tunnel
Hope during tough times. Thanksgiving reminds families of hope.
14.4 Keep Your Chin Up
Stay strong and cheerful. Thanksgiving hugs help with that.
14.5 Bright as a Button
Someone smart and cheerful. Many kids shine like this on Thanksgiving.
14.6 Walk on the Bright Side
Choosing positivity. Thanksgiving moments teach this naturally.
14.7 Silver Spoon Moments
Special times that feel fancy or lucky. Thanksgiving dinners often feel this way.
14.8 A Breath of Hope
Something small but encouraging. Thanksgiving brings hope through togetherness.
14.9 Shine On
Keep being your best self. Thanksgiving applauds little heroes.
14.10 Clear Skies Ahead
Good times coming. Thanksgiving marks the start of a happy season.
15. Funny & Silly Thanksgiving Idioms
15.1 Go Cold Turkey
Stopping something suddenly—don’t worry, this isn’t about real turkey! Kids love the silly name.
15.2 Don’t Chicken Out
Be brave. Good advice for trying new Thanksgiving foods.
15.3 A Tough Cookie
Someone strong. Maybe someone who can resist eating all the cookies!
15.4 A Big Cheese
An important person. At Thanksgiving, it might be the chef.
15.5 Spill the Beans
Reveal a secret. Like who secretly ate the last roll.
15.6 Couch Potato
Someone who sits and relaxes too much. Thanksgiving can create a few of these.
15.7 Bring Home the Bacon
Work hard to earn something. At Thanksgiving, it might mean bringing your best dish.
15.8 Full of Hot Air
Someone who talks a lot. Every Thanksgiving has at least one funny storyteller.
15.9 In a Pickle
In a tricky situation. Like trying to choose between pie flavors!
15.10 It’s a Piece of Cake
Something easy. And yes—eating cake is also easy!
Conclusion
Thanksgiving idioms make language colorful, fun, and full of meaning. They help kids understand kindness, gratitude, teamwork, and joy in imaginative ways. With these idioms, Thanksgiving becomes not just a holiday of food—but a celebration of words, warmth, and wonderful memories.
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