lean over backwards

lean over backwards

1. Literally, to bend backwards. I'm so sore after leaning over backwards and doing all those weird stretches at yoga this morning.

2. To exert a lot of effort toward some end. This phrase is often used to express frustration when one's efforts go unrecognized. I have been leaning over backwards to make sure that you have a wonderful visit, and you don't even care! The entire staff really needs to lean over backwards while the CEO is visiting our office.

See also: backward, lean, over

lean over backwards

(to do something) Go to fall over backwards (to do something).

See also: backward, lean, over

bend/lean over ˈbackwards to do something

try very hard to help or please somebody: I’ve bent over backwards to be nice to her, but she’s pushed me too far now.

See also: backward, bend, lean, over, something