do a number on (someone or something)
(redirected from done a number on one)do a number on (someone or something)
1. To hurt or harm someone or something. Considering her pessimism toward marriage, her last break-up must have really done a number on her. Ugh, your puppy did a number on my new shoes—they're completely chewed up!
2. To urinate or defecate on something. My cat used to always use her litter box, but she regularly does a number on the floor, unfortunately.
do a number on someone or something
Sl. to damage or harm someone or something. The teacher did a number on the whole class by giving them a pop quiz. Tom did a number on Mary when he went out with Ann.
do a number on someone
INFORMALIf someone does a number on you, they harm you in some way, for example by cheating you or by totally defeating you in a game or match. He really did a number on me. I don't think I'll ever be able to trust him again. The Irish team are looking to do a number on England in Dublin tomorrow.
do a number on
treat someone badly, typically by deceiving, humiliating, or criticizing them in a calculated and thorough way. North American informaldo a ˈnumber on somebody/something
(informal, especially American English) hurt, damage or criticize somebody/something seriously: Sun and pollution can really do a number on your skin. ♢ To the delight of Republicans, the press did a number on your senator (= criticized him severely).do a number on someone
and do a job on someone (From do a number on something.) tv. to harm or deceive someone. The prof did a number on me because of my term paper. My local friendly plumber did a job on me cleaning out my drain.
do a number on something
1. tv. to urinate or defecate on something. Billy did a number on the bathroom floor.
2. tv. to damage or ruin something; to destroy something. The truck really did a number on my car.
do a number on
Slang To defeat, abuse, or humiliate in a calculated and thorough way.