English idiom

ants in your pants

Register · Informal CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

To be unable to keep still because you are restless or excited.

Why this phrase?

As if biting ants made you fidget endlessly.

Example

“The kids had ants in their pants waiting for the show to start.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

hit the ground running

to start a new job or project with immediate energy and effectiveness, without needing a slow start

jump the gun

To do something too soon, before the right time.

new lease of life

renewed energy, health, or usefulness

run out of steam

to lose the energy, enthusiasm, or momentum needed to continue

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

markdown