Phrase guide

red rag to a bull

noun · 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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1

noun

Meaning 1

Something that will enrage another particular person.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • Simply mentioning the word "nationalism" to him is like a red rag to a bull.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: red flag to a bull, red rag

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Possibly refers to the red cape used by matadors in bullfighting.