break one's arm patting oneself on the back en · VERB
Pronunciation
- (US) audio
Etymology
From pat on the back, and the uncomfortable position one would have to assume while patting their own back.
Meanings
-
(derogatory, humorous) To be very full of oneself. Often used as a sarcastic caution: "don't break your arm patting yourself on the back".
— We're the best football team in the state! — Careful, dude, don't break your arm patting yourself on the back.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| breaks one's arm patting oneself on the back | Number=Sing, Person=3, Tense=Pres | lexicographic | |
| broken one's arm patting oneself on the back | Tense=Past, VerbForm=Part | lexicographic | |
| broke one's arm patting oneself on the back | Tense=Past | lexicographic | |
| hurt one's hand patting oneself on the back | alternative | lexicographic | |
| dislocate one's shoulder patting oneself on the back | alternative | lexicographic | |
| hurt one's arm patting oneself on the back | alternative | lexicographic | |
| breaking one's arm patting oneself on the back | Tense=Pres, VerbForm=Part | lexicographic | |
| hurt one's shoulder patting oneself on the back | alternative | lexicographic |
Synonyms
toot one's own horn (be very proud)