General
flat out
What does flat out mean?
Very busy; 'flat out like a lizard drinking' is an intensified version.
"Can't chat, I'm flat out at work today."
Origin
From going 'flat out' (at full speed).
Frequently asked questions
What does flat out mean in Australia?
It means extremely busy or working at full capacity. 'I'm flat out today' means I'm swamped.
What does flat out like a lizard drinking mean?
It's a jokey, intensified version meaning extremely busy. It plays on the double meaning of 'flat out' (busy) and a lizard lying flat to drink.
Where does flat out come from?
From driving or moving 'flat out', meaning at full speed, extended to mean working as hard and fast as possible.
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