drop in (one's) tracks
1. To die suddenly. Brett always seemed so healthy—I'm shocked that he dropped in his tracks at 55. A: "People don't just drop in their tracks for no reason." B: "What are you suggesting? Foul play?" Wow, I still can't believe that one of my classmates dropped in his tracks from a seizure over winter break.
2. To collapse, as from over-exertion. I hardly remember the end of the marathon because I dropped in my tracks as soon as I crossed the finish line. If you don't stay hydrated in this extreme heat, you're liable to drop in your tracks. After a full day at the amusement park, we were all ready to drop in our tracks—thankfully, our hotel was just a short walk away.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
drop in one's tracks
1. to collapse from exhaustion. I was so tired, I dropped in my tracks. Kelly almost dropped in her tracks from overwork.
2. to die instantly. Finally, one day, he worked so hard that he dropped in his tracks. I know that someday I will just drop in my tracks.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
drop in one's tracks
Collapse from weariness or illness; also, die suddenly. For example, I packed all day until I could have dropped in my tracks, or Grandfather's died; he just dropped in his tracks. The phrase in one's tracks has meant "where one is at the moment," and by extension, "instantly," since the early 1800s.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.