put the mockers on something

put the mockers on (something)

To disrupt, foil, or cause problems to someone's plan, activity, or project. Primarily heard in UK. The caterer cancelled on me at the last minute, which really puts the mockers on this party! It will really put the mockers on our project if the board decides not to increase our funding. You would think the rise of cheap electric cars would put the mockers on Big Oil's profits, but they actually seem to be embracing the change.

See also: mockers, on, put

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

put the mockers on something

BRITISH, OLD-FASHIONED

If someone or something puts the mockers on something, they prevent it from happening or from being successful. The sending-off of Simon Walker after only 10 minutes certainly put the mockers on any thought of an English victory. Note: The origin of this expression is uncertain, but some people think that `mockers' may come from Yiddish.

See also: mockers, on, put, something

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

put the ˈmockers on something

(British English, informal) stop something from happening or spoil its chances for success: According to the weather forecast, it’s going to rain, which will really put the mockers on our plans for a barbecue.

See also: mockers, on, put, something

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