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3. (in) up to (one's) elbows

(in) up to (one's) elbows

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(in) up to (one's) elbows

Extremely busy; deeply involved or engrossed (in or with something). I'd love to come for a pint, but I'm in up to my elbows with work for my class on Monday. John has been up to his elbows with the kids lately.

See also: elbow, up