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 Ammer, Christine. American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.
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 Ammer, Christine. American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.
More Idioms Starting with P
- Put the Pedal to the Metal
- Proof is in the Pudding, the
- Put in One’s Two Cents Worth
- Pony Up
- Pot Calling the Kettle Black
More Pick Idioms
This page contains one or more affiliate links. See full affiliate disclosure.
YouTube and Facebook Group
Sources
| 1, 2. | ↲ | Ammer, Christine. American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013. |