Two shakes of a lamb’s tail means something will be done quickly or in a very short amount of time. If you ask someone to hurry up, and they respond, “I’ll be there in two shakes of a lamb’s tail,” they mean they’ll be there fast.
This phrase, like most idioms, comes from a literal idea but holds no literal meaning. Because that’s what idioms are! But it’s all in how you use it. So, this guide is a crash course on the meaning, origin, and correct usage of two shakes of a lamb’s tail in sentence examples.
Two Shakes of a Lamb’s Tail Meaning
Two shakes of a lamb’s tail is an idiom indicating something will be done very quickly or immediately. By using this phrase, you’re implying that the task or action will be completed as soon as possible. It’s a whimsical and vivid way of expressing the concept of speed and promptness.
It’s like when my editor follows up, looking for the edits on my manuscript she requested. I could respond by saying, “Sure, I’ll have it over to you immediately,” or I could make light of it and say, “Sure, I’ll have it over to you in two shakes of a lamb’s tail!”
Nowadays, the phrase has become so common and well-known that some people have shortened it to two shakes: “I’ll be there in two shakes!”
Is It 2 Shakes of a Lamb’s Tail or Two Shakes of a Lamb’s Tail?
Whether you prefer the number 2 or spell it out as two, the meaning remains the same. But for the sake of tradition and official style guides, two shakes of a lamb’s tail is the more common way to write it.
Two Shakes of a Lamb’s Tail Origin and Etymology
The exact origin of the phrase two shakes of a lamb’s tail remains a topic of discussion. Some believe it has British roots, while others suggest it could be from Australia or New Zealand. The idiom undoubtedly speaks to the quickness of a lamb’s tail wagging, a behavior that anyone who has observed lambs can attest is both rapid and charming.
The earliest known publication of the expression of two shakes of a lamb’s tail was in Ingoldsby Legends by Richard Barham in 1840.
Two Shakes of a Lamb’s Tail Synonyms
- In a flash
- In a jiff
- In a heartbeat
- In a split second
- Any minute
- Quick as a wink
Examples of Two Shakes of a Lamb’s Tail in a Sentence
- I’ll finish this task in two shakes of a lamb’s tail and move on to the next.
- She promised to call back in two shakes of a lamb’s tail, but it’s been an hour!
- The stray cat was gone in two shakes of a lamb’s tail, leaving no trace behind.
- If you think solving this puzzle is a matter of two shakes of a lamb’s tail, think again!
- “I’ll be back with your order in two shakes of a lamb’s tail,” the waiter assured.
- If you leave now, you’ll reach the station in two shakes of a lamb’s tail and catch your train.
- He changed his mind in two shakes of a lamb’s tail after hearing the news about the poor conditions of the restaurant’s kitchen.
That Was fast!
Two shakes of a lamb’s tail is a testament to the playful and imaginative side of language. Next time you’re in a hurry or want to express the idea of speediness, use this idiom! But I’ve got plenty more idioms for you to learn, so check them out!
Want to know more idioms? Check out some others we covered: