Idioms

know where the bodies are buried

know where (all) the bodies are buried

To know a large amount of secret or scandalous information about a person or group that they would not want to be revealed, especially due to one's lengthy experience with that person or group. Often used in relation to one who wields this information for their own benefit or advantage. I've been an accountant with this company for over 50 years, so trust me, I know where all the bodies are buried. He climbed to power because he worked for several top government and military officials and he knew where the bodies were buried.
See also: body, bury, know
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

know where the bodies are buried

have the security deriving from personal knowledge of an organization's confidential affairs and secrets. informal
See also: body, bury, know
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
See also:
References in periodicals archive
CUNNINGHAM: I want you to stay there, Donald, because I think you're the best, you're a hard-nosed guy, you know where the bodies are buried in Washington, DC, you know how the department works.
Another side of Rummy
You can't say that Fred doesn't know where the bodies are buried, so we applaud the choice.
Who's Who
Copyright © 2003-2025 Farlex, Inc Disclaimer
All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.