blew



blow the coals

To turn a minor issue into a major source of conflict. Likened to coaxing a smoldering flame into a fire by literally blowing on hot coals. Stop trying to blow the coals! There is no tension between Jen and me—you're imagining it! A: "What went wrong last night?" B: "Well, you know Sue, she just kept blowing the coals until everybody was in an all-out fight."
See also: blow, coal

blow a raspberry

To make a sputtering noise by pressing the tongue and lips together. It can be used to express either real or faux contempt, mockery, or displeasure, or as a playful gesture toward babies or young children, who may repeat it. Jacqueline quickly blew a raspberry at Dave after he made fun of her new haircut. Tara loves hearing her baby boy giggle when she blows raspberries on his tummy.
See also: blow, raspberry

blow a strawberry

To make a sputtering noise by pressing the tongue and lips together. It can be used to express either real or faux contempt, mockery, or displeasure, or as a playful gesture toward babies or young children, who may repeat it. It is more often called a "raspberry." Jacqueline quickly blew a strawberry at Dave after he made fun of her new haircut. Tara loves hearing her baby boy giggle when she blows strawberries on his tummy.
See also: blow, strawberry

blow a raspberry

  (British & Australian informal) also give a raspberry (American informal)
to make a rude noise by putting your tongue between your lips and blowing (often + at ) A boy of no more than six appeared, blew a raspberry at me and then ran away.
See also: blow, raspberry

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
StefÁNia-Hungarian
Melisizwe-Southern African, Xhosa
MoabMO-ab (English)Biblical
Eiluned-Welsh
Min-Seomeen-suKorean
DiethelmDEET-helmGerman