An idiom is a phrase or expression that typically presents a figurative, non-literal meaning attached to the phrase; but some phrases become figurative idioms while retaining the literal meaning of the phrase. Categorized as formulaic language, an idiom's figurative meaning is different from the literal meaning.

What is an example of an idiom?

Idioms exist in every language. They are words or phrases that aren't meant to be taken literally. For example, if you say someone has “cold feet,” it doesn't mean their toes are actually cold. ... If taken literally, you would think that someone with cold feet has feet that feel chilly.

What does idiom mean simple?

An idiom is an expression or phrase whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words “Idioms mean something different than the individual words.” Students often confuse idioms with proverbs.