elbow

at someone's elbow

near someone, often in order to help them. She hovered constantly at Charles's elbow to make sure he had everything he wanted.

can't tell your arse from your elbow (very informal!, very informal!)

if you can't tell your arse from your elbow, you are stupid and become confused about simple things. It's no good asking him to organize anything - he can't tell his arse from his elbow.

See also: arse, can't, from, tell

elbow grease (humorous)

hard work, especially when you are cleaning something. With determination and elbow grease we soon transformed the filthy kitchen.

See also: grease

elbow room

1. space which allows you to move around. There's no elbow room at all in this kitchen.

2. the freedom to do what you want to do. The President should be given as much elbow room as he needs to solve these international problems.

See also: room

give someone the elbow (British, informal)

to end a romantic relationship with someone. They went out together for a month and then she gave him the elbow.

See also: give

More power to your elbow! (British & Australian, American & Australian)

something that you say to praise someone and to say that you hope they continue to have success. 'I've decided to set up my own business.' 'Good for you. More power to your elbow!'

See also: more, power

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at someone's elbow

very near and convenient. My kitchen is small and efficient with everything right at my elbow. Does the president have enough advisors at his elbow?

rub elbows with someone

to meet or be with someone socially. As Ms Quasebarth's personal assistant, Celia has rubbed elbows with singers and DJ's and even presidents.

See also: rub