General
all wet
What does all wet mean?
Mistaken, off-base, or talking nonsense.
"If you think I'll fall for that, you're all wet."
Origin
A 1920s American slang phrase for being completely wrong, common in flapper and jazz-age conversation. The image is of someone soaked and therefore foolish or out of their depth.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'all wet' mean in slang?
It means completely wrong or mistaken. In the 1920s you'd tell someone they were 'all wet' to reject their claim.
Where did 'all wet' come from?
From 1920s American slang. The watery image suggested someone soaked, foolish, and out of their depth.
Is 'all wet' still used?
Occasionally, mostly by older speakers or for a retro effect. It's largely a period piece now.
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