Your head on a platter In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "your head on a platter", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Zelda Thuong

2020-12-01 04:12

Meaning of Your head on a platter

Your head on a platter noun phrase

Used hyperbolically to refer to a very harsh punishment

If I find out you say those things about me behind my back, I'll have his head on a plate.

Whoever's responsible for this rebellion, I want their head on a platter.

Other phrases about:

To lower the boom (on someone or something)

To punish someone or something harshly

be for the high jump

Someone is going to receive a harsh punishment for what he or she has done something wrong.

Little thieves are hanged, but great ones escape.

Small-time criminals will face the full consequences of the law while those who commit large-scale crimes will go unpunished.

Give Someone A Black Eye

Punish someone by damaging their dignity or reputation for what they have done without causing them permanent harm.

Graystone College

Prison or jail

Grammar and Usage of Your head on a platter

This idiom can redirect to another one: (one's) head on a plate/platter.

Origin of Your head on a platter

(Image source: episcopalcafe.com)

This phrase is originated from an ancient story: During a banquet celebrating the birthday of Herod, who ruled Galilee in Jesus's time, his daughter Herodias takes the stage and dances for his guests. Everyone is so impressed that Herod offers to reward her with whatever her heart desires. The girl privately consults with her mother, who advises her to ask for the head of John the Baptist. Literally—she wants his head. Mom has a score to settle: it was John who argued that her marriage to Herod was a breach of the Jewish law because Herod was her brother-in-law.

Herodias follows her mother's suggestion and requests John's head, but she adds a gruesome and inventive twist of her own. While her mother simply asked for "the head of John the Baptist," Herodias demands "the head of John the Baptist on a platter." Because he liked to listen to John, Herod doesn't want to do it, but unwilling to renege in front of his guests, he orders the executioner to carry out the girl's wishes.