Meaning of Idiom ‘Pick of the Litter’
When something (or someone) is the pick of the litter it is the best of a group. 1
Examples Of Use
“Isn’t it a little early to go looking for yard sales?” asked Karen. “I like to get to them as early as possible so I can get the pick of the litter,” said Tom.
“It’s not exactly the pick of the litter,” said the salesman. “but it’s a reliable vehicle that fits your price range.”
Origin
Used since the early 1900’s, this idiom alludes to the best (most healthy, largest, etc.) newborn from a litter of puppies, kittens, piglets, etc. 2
More Idioms Starting with P
More Pick Idioms
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References- Ammer, Christine. American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.
- Ammer, Christine. American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.