castle

An Englishman's home is his castle. (British, old-fashioned)

something that you say which means that British people believe they should be able to control what happens in their own homes, and that no one else should tell them what to do there. An Englishman's home is his castle. The government has no right to interfere in our private lives!

See also: his, home

castles in the air

plans or hopes that have very little chance of happening. She tells me she's planned out her whole career, but as far as I can see it's all just castles in the air. Before you start building castles in the air, just think how much all this is likely to cost.

See also: air

king of the castle (British, American)

the most successful or most powerful person in a group of people. Jamie Spence was king of the castle yesterday when he beat the defending champion in the third round. Our team is sure to be king of the hill this year.

See also: king