Phrase guide

off with someone's head

phrase · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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  • Received-Pronunciation: /ˈɒf wɪð ˈsʌmwənz ˈhɛd/
  • General-American: /ˈɔf wɪθ ˈsʌmwənz ˈhɛd/

1

phrase

Meaning 1

Used to express a desire to kill the person in question.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: humorous, usually

Examples

  • Some nerve! Off with their heads! shouted the master of ceremonies with mock ferocity, while the audience laughed.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From the common use in past times of decapitation as a method of execution for prominent persons.