mum is the word
1
said as a promise or request to not tell something to anyone else
The idiom "mum is the word" originated from the Middle English word "mum," which meant to keep silent or be quiet. The phrase signifies the act of maintaining secrecy or confidentiality, often in situations where it is important not to reveal sensitive information or to keep a secret. The idiom suggests that one should remain silent and refrain from speaking about a particular matter. It implies the need for discretion and emphasizes the importance of keeping one's lips sealed.
- Mum's the word, or the surprise party won't be a surprise.
- Now, I don't want anyone to know that I'm pregnant yet, so mum's the word.
- When asked about the surprise party, she smiled and said, "Mum is the word!"
- Despite the temptation to share the news, he kept it to himself, remembering that "mum's the word."
- The children promised their parents that "mum is the word" and they wouldn't reveal the surprise vacation destination.