and a partridge in a pear tree
Originating from the Christmas carol "The Twelve Days of Christmas," this phrase is often used humorously to emphasize the length or extravagance of a list.
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Definition
B1Literature
(historical, cultural)A reference to the first gift in the Christmas song 'The Twelve Days of Christmas,' symbolizing a simple yet festive image.
Example
- The song begins with the gift of a partridge in a pear tree.
B2General
(humorous, idiomatic)Used at the end of a long list to highlight its length or complexity.
Example
- I have to buy groceries, clean the house, finish my report, and a partridge in a pear tree.