Send to coventry

verb

Definitions

Verb
  1. 1
    To ostracize, or systematically ignore someone. idiomatic, transitive

    "The group decided to send the unpopular members to Coventry."

Etymology

Some believe that the phrase dates from the English Civil War, when a military prison was located in that city. Others say it dates from the 18th century, when Coventry was the nearest town to London that lay outside the jurisdiction of the Bow Street Runners and so London criminals would flee to Coventry to escape arrest.

Next best steps

Mini challenge

Want a quick game? Try Word Finder.