The idiom “(as) broad as a barn door” is used to describe someone or something that is exceptionally wide or broad. It often emphasizes physical size, particularly in a humorous or exaggerated manner.
What does “(as) broad as a barn door” mean?
Definition:
- Extremely wide or broad, often in a literal sense.
- Can also describe someone with a strong or large physical build.
Origin:
- The phrase draws from the image of a barn door, which is typically very wide to accommodate large farm equipment or animals. The comparison highlights the notable breadth of the subject.
Examples of “(as) broad as a barn door“
Describing physical size:
“The wrestler’s shoulders were as broad as a barn door.”
“Jim’s backside is so wide, it’s as broad as a barn door!”
Describing objects:
“The new TV is enormous—its screen is as broad as a barn door.”
“The gate was as broad as a barn door, letting the tractor pass easily.”
How to use “(as) broad as a barn door“
This idiom is typically used in a playful or humorous context to emphasize size, whether referring to a person or an object. It’s often lighthearted and rarely offensive.
In everyday speech:
“That bookshelf is as broad as a barn door! Where are we going to put it?”
“He’s been working out so much, his chest is as broad as a barn door now.”
In writing or storytelling:
“The guard stood in the doorway, his frame as broad as a barn door, blocking their escape.”
Related idioms
- Big as a house: Extremely large.
- Built like a tank: Strong and broad in build.
- Wide as the ocean: Very expansive or broad.
Cultural insight
The idiom “(as) broad as a barn door” is commonly used in informal conversations to describe width in a humorous or exaggerated way. While it often focuses on physical traits, it can also describe large objects or spaces.
Conclusion
The phrase “(as) broad as a barn door” adds color and humor to descriptions of width or size. Whether describing a person with a strong build or a large object, this idiom creates a vivid mental image, often bringing a smile to the listener’s face.
