Phrase guide

see a man about a dog

verb · 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

verb

Meaning 1

Used in place of a real explanation when excusing oneself for a short period of time, particularly (euphemistic) to use the toilet or (historical) drink alcohol.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: dated, idiomatic

Examples

  • I'll be right back, but I've got to go to see a man about a dog.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Unknown. As a Prohibition-era reference to getting alcohol, influenced by the expression hair of the dog.