throw to the dogs

throw to the dogs

English

Pronunciation

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Verb

throw to the dogs

1. (idiomatic) To throw away as useless.
   • 1623, William Shakespeare, Macbeth, act 5, scene 3:

     Throw physic to the dogs; I'll none of it.

2. (idiomatic) To remove or cast out someone or something from one's protection, such as into the streets.
3. (idiomatic) To give up on something valuable.
   • 1945, Karl E. Ettinger, Public Relations Directory and Yearbook‎,, page 45:

     Let's hope it will not throw "to the dogs" its new-found opportunity for winning back public favor and respect.

See also

• dog bone
• throw in the towel
• throw to the wolves