Autumn Idioms

8 Autumn Idioms with Meanings and Examples

Discover 8 popular idioms related to the autumn season. These expressions are not only seasonally themed but also commonly used in everyday English. Perfect for classroom activities or vocabulary expansion!

1. To drive somebody nuts

This idiom means to annoy someone very much. For example: "The constant noise from the street is driving me nuts!"

To drive somebody nuts - English Idiom

2. To be nuts about somebody/something

Used when someone is extremely enthusiastic or in love with something or someone. For example: "He’s nuts about football."

To be nuts about - English Idiom

3. To turn over a new leaf

Means to start behaving in a better way. For example: "He promised to turn over a new leaf and stop being late."

Turn over a new leaf - English Idiom

4. To be shaking like a leaf

Used to describe someone who is extremely nervous or afraid. For example: "She was shaking like a leaf before the interview."

Shaking like a leaf - English Idiom

5. Save for a rainy day

This idiom means to save money for a time when it might be needed unexpectedly. Example: "Try to save some money for a rainy day."

Save for a rainy day - English Idiom

6. To be under the weather

Means to feel unwell or sick. For example: "I’m feeling a bit under the weather today."

Under the weather - English Idiom

7. The autumn years

This idiom refers to the later years of a person’s life. For example: "They enjoyed traveling during the autumn years of their lives."

Autumn years - English Idiom

8. To get wind of something

Used when someone hears a rumor or secret. For example: "She got wind of the company’s plan to relocate."

Get wind of something - English Idiom

You can download printable autumn idiom flashcards and the accompanying worksheet for free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which autumn idioms are worth learning?

The article explains eight, and several have nothing to do with the season itself, which is what makes them useful all year: to drive somebody nuts means to annoy them badly, and to be nuts about something means to be crazy about it. Autumn simply provides the picture that makes them memorable.

Why teach idioms by season?

Because a theme gives a reason to meet several at once and a hook for remembering them. Students who learn eight autumn expressions in October keep them better than the same eight met one at a time in a list with no connection.

How do I practise idioms so they stick?

Use each one about yourself the same day you learn it: what drives you nuts, what you are nuts about. An idiom repeated in a true sentence is remembered; an idiom copied into a vocabulary notebook usually is not.
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