Phrase guide

spit the dummy

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

To overreact (as an adult) to a situation, in an angry and childish manner.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Australia, idiomatic, informal

Examples

  • He'll really spit the dummy when he hears that he's not going on that trip.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Referring to a baby having a tantrum and spitting out its dummy.