banana skin

noun

1. the soft outer covering of a banana

2. informal,  something unforeseen that causes an obvious and embarrassing mistake

Word History and Origins

Origin of banana skin¹

sense 2 from the common slapstick joke of a person slipping after treading on a banana skin

Example Sentences

That is the equivalent of every person in Wales recycling an extra banana skin each week.

From BBC

Another excellent performance in a game that was a potential banana skin against Southampton.

From BBC

So, with Rodri missing, on top of Chelsea's youth, energy and especially the fact they were playing at Stamford Bridge, I did think this game could be a banana skin for them.

From BBC

Ms Faulkner said she had seen discarded banana skins and nappy bags at the site.

From BBC

A big opportunity for Glasgow tonight - but Scottish rugby fans know all too well about slipping on banana skins.

From BBC