Meaning To work late into the night.
Usage Worldwide.
Example
- Sorry, I can't come to the pub. This report's due at 9am and I'll need to burn the midnight oil if I am going to get it finished.
Pronunciation
Idiom
Burn the midnight oil
What does "Burn the midnight oil" mean?
To work late into the night.
Burn the midnight oil
Britain, 17th century.