Phrase Finder

Idiom

Washed up

What does "Washed up" mean?

1. Deposited on a beach by the tide. 2. Finished and failed, with no further chance of success.

Washed up

1. Britain, 17th century. 2. USA, 1920s.

Meaning 1. Deposited on a beach by the tide. 2. Finished and failed, with no further chance of success.

Usage 1. Worldwide. 2. Mostly USA.

Example

  • 1. Come and see, there's a shark washed up on the beach. 2. She used to be a great actress until she started on the booze. Now no one will hire her - she's all washed up.