hell for leather
1 of 1phrase/ˈhɛl fər ˈlɛðər/
1
as soon or fast as one can
The idiom "hell for leather" is believed to have originated in the 19th century and likely comes from the world of horse racing. It describes a rider urging their horse to go as fast as possible by using a whip or spurs, often pushing the horse to its limits. This idiomatic phrase is used to describe someone or something moving or progressing at high speed, often with great determination and intensity. It conveys the idea of rapid and sometimes reckless movement.
- He drove hell for leather to make it to the airport in time for his flight.
- In the final stretch of the race, the runners sprinted hell for leather to reach the finish line first.
- The motorcycle raced down the highway hell for leather, weaving in and out of traffic.
- The delivery driver drove hell for leather to complete all the deliveries before the end of the day.
- When the storm hit, the sailors worked hell for leather to secure the ship's cargo.