What does the idiom to eat a dog mean? - briefly
The idiom "to eat a dog" is not commonly recognized in English and does not carry a standard meaning. It's possible that it may be a mistranslation or misunderstanding of another phrase or idiom. In English, common idioms involving animals and food include "eating crow," which means to admit one was wrong, and "bring home the bacon," referring to providing for one's family financially. If you encountered this specific phrase in a particular context, more information may be needed to understand its intended meaning.
What does the idiom to eat a dog mean? - in detail
The idiom "to eat a dog" is an expression used to convey a sense of extreme hunger or desperation for food. This phrase originates from the idea that someone would be so hungry they would resort to eating something as unappealing or taboo as a dog, which is not typically considered food in many cultures. The use of this idiom implies that the person is experiencing an intense and urgent need for nourishment, often due to prolonged lack of food or difficult circumstances. It emphasizes the depth of one's hunger and the direness of their situation.