Music
off the hook
What does off the hook mean?
Out of control in a great way, beyond expectations.
"The crowd went off the hook when she hit the high note."
Origin
AAVE and hip-hop slang of the 90s, drawing on the image of a telephone left 'off the hook,' meaning ringing nonstop and out of control.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'off the hook' mean?
It means wild, exciting, and amazing, so good that it's out of control.
Is 'off the hook' the same as 'off the chain'?
Yes, both 90s phrases mean the same thing: wildly fun and impressive.
Where does 'off the hook' come from?
It's 90s hip-hop slang based on a phone left off the hook, ringing nonstop and out of control.
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