off like a bride's nightie

An Australian slang phrase used humorously to describe a swift and sudden departure.

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Definition

C1General

(informal, humorous, Australian)Departing or leaving very quickly and suddenly.

Example

  • As soon as the meeting ended, he was off like a bride's nightie.
  • When the bell rang, the students were off like a bride's nightie.

C1Horse Racing

(informal, Australian)Starting a race or activity with great speed and determination.

Example

  • The horse was off like a bride's nightie as soon as the gates opened.
  • At the sound of the whistle, the runners were off like a bride's nightie.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "off like a bride's nightie":

take off