breed in the bone

To deeply and firmly root, ingrain, or establish some trait or behavior, as if inherited genetically. His etiquette is the type of thing the military breeds in the bone. In this part of the country, hospitality is simply bred in the bone. My guess is that those bad habits of his were bred in the bone by prolonged bachelorhood.

breed like rabbits

slang To have several babies in a short period of time. (Rabbits are known to produce a large number of offspring very rapidly.) I can't believe my sister is pregnant for the fourth time in five years. She and her husband just breed like rabbits! Some of these feral cats will breed like rabbits if we don't catch and spay them. A: "I'm surprised they only have one kid. They married so young that I expected them to breed like rabbits." B: "I'm pretty sure they've had some infertility issues."

breed up a storm

Of the weather, to become overcast. I wouldn't go outside right now—it looks to be breeding up a storm. Enjoy this sunshine while it lasts because the sky is supposed to breed up a storm this afternoon. The raincoat is overkill now, but it seemed to be breeding up a storm when I left the house this morning!

breeding ground

1. Literally, a place where animals congregate for the sake of breeding. The ducks return to their breeding ground in the park every spring. The state helps farmers maintain breeding grounds for livestock. This tends to be a breeding ground for geese, and geese are very territorial, so don't get too close to any of the babies.

2. A place, environment, or situation that promotes or provides ample conditions for the development of something, whether tangible or intangible. Offices are breeding grounds for sickness in the wintertime. We hope to create a dynamic research space for our students that will become a breeding ground for innovation and new ideas. Did you read the CEO's latest comments? I'm starting to think that company just a breeding ground for misogyny.

breeding will tell

proverb One's true nature will be revealed. If you're skeptical of someone's motives, just give it time—breeding will tell. I never trust anyone right off the bat. In time, breeding will tell, without fail. I knew it was all an act! As my mother would say, breeding will tell—and, boy, did it.

Breeding will tell.

Prov. one's character or lack of it will become known. From the beginning, he appeared to be courteous, and now he clearly has proven himself to be so. Breeding will tell.

breed like rabbits

reproduce prolifically. informal

breed up a storm

New England

To become cloudy.