rotten egg
Plural
rotten eggs
1
a person who has a tendency to behave badly and cause trouble for others
The origin of the phrase "rotten egg" is unclear, but it is likely based on the association of rotten eggs with foul smells and unpleasantness. It is used to criticize or warn others about someone's negative behavior and the potential for causing trouble or harm.
- Be careful around him; he's a rotten egg, always starting arguments and causing conflicts.
- She seemed nice at first, but she turned out to be a rotten egg, spreading rumors and gossiping about everyone.
- They decided to exclude him from the team because of his reputation as a rotten egg, known for creating divisions among teammates.
2
someone who keeps failing at things they try to do, particularly in a hilarious or horrendous way
The idiom "rotten egg" is a term that originally referred to an egg that had gone bad and was no longer fit for consumption. The term has been used metaphorically to describe a person who is considered to be a failure or a disappointment, particularly in a humorous or derisive way. The exact origin of the idiom is unclear, but it likely dates back to the early 20th century. It is often used to describe a person who is unsuccessful or inept, particularly in a humorous or sarcastic way.
- He's such a rotten egg, he can't even make toast without burning it.
- If he keeps up like this, he'll be a rotten egg for the rest of his life.
- She was a real rotten egg in school, always getting into trouble and failing her exams.