flat on back

flat on (one's) back

Lacking the strength or ability to get up. Often used when someone is sick or injured, but it can be used figuratively as well. Oh man, I'm flat on my back with this flu. I haven't been out of bed in days! Sally's been flat on her back ever since she broke her leg. She's having a really hard time getting around in her cast. Losing my job has left me flat on my back. I'm really worried about how I'll pay my bills right now.

See also: back, flat, on

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

flat on one's back

ill in bed. I've been on my back with the flu for two weeks. She was flat on her back during her illness.

See also: back, flat, on

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.