catch lightning in a bottle

American  

[kach lahyt-ning in uh bot-l] / ˈkætʃ ˈlaɪt nɪŋ ɪn ə ˈbɒt l /

idiom

1. to accomplish something extraordinarily difficult; achieve rare success.

   So far we’re underdogs this season, and will have to catch lightning in a bottle to make the playoffs.

   The network is seeking to catch lightning in a bottle twice by rebooting the popular series.

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Etymology

Origin of catch lightning in a bottle

First recorded in 1905–10, in the literal sense

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

catch lightning in a bottle

If they do manage to catch lightning in a bottle, it’s a sign that whatever useless film sequel they’re working on for the year ahead will be a critical and commercial success.

From Salon ● Jan. 4, 2026

One is always trying to catch lightning in a bottle, and with the grace of the Movie Gods, the film is what I hoped it would be.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 2, 2025

Morant’s hungry Grizzlies could catch lightning in a bottle.

From Washington Post ● Apr. 15, 2022

You can’t catch lightning in a bottle twice.

From Fox News ● Feb. 24, 2020

They weren't trying to catch lightning in a bottle with a recycled veteran.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 10, 2012

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