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in the doghouse

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*in the doghouse

Fig. in trouble; in (someone's) disfavor. (*Typically: be ~; get ~; find oneself ~; put someone [into] ~.) I'm really in the doghouse with my boss. I was late for an appointment. I hate being in the doghouse all the time. I don't know why I can't stay out of trouble.

See also: doghouse

in the doghouse

in a situation in which someone is annoyed with you because of something you did The president's aide is in the doghouse over remarks she made to the press.

Usage notes: the opposite is out of the doghouse: She won't be out of the doghouse until she apologizes.

Etymology: based on the idea of being punished like a dog who is forced to stay in a doghouse (a shelter used by a dog), away from people

See also: doghouse

in the doghouse

In disfavor, in trouble, as in Jane knew that forgetting the check would put her in the doghouse. This expression alludes to relegating a dog that misbehaves to its outdoor kennel. [c. 1900]

See also: doghouse

in the doghouse

Slang

In great disfavor or trouble.

See also: doghouse