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Loose Cannon

Who easily loses his or her temper and gets out of control

Etymology:

  • Many years ago, in days when sailors go on board warship, it is noticing that more than enemy of war, they had to be more careful of the cannons that lied on ships. Though these were tied tightly, but if the weather was stormy, then there was a chance for these cannons to get loose and slid across the slimy floor as the ship gets jolted and tossed here and there, so it could crashed into things or people on the ship causing great damage. Today a person can be called a “loose cannon” that is short tempered and have wild behavior.
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Nick really is loose cannon; just keep him out of the serious discussion.

Submitted on February 25, 2019

Additional definitions for 'Loose Cannon':

loose cannonA cannon that breaks loose during battle or a storm and causes serious damage to the ship and its crew.
loose cannonAn uncontrolled or unpredictable person who causes damage to his own friends, faction, political party, etc.
See them all »

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    "Loose Cannon." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 23 Apr. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/loose-cannon_44841>.

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