clear the table
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Out of politeness, you extend this assumption even if you’ve seen the teller sprint for the sofa at family gatherings when the time comes to clear the table or grab a broom.
From Salon • Jan. 14, 2026
And the energy around the meeting has been supercharged by the surprisingly soft inflation data that saw traders all but clear the table of any remaining rate hike bets.
From Reuters • Jun. 14, 2023
The food arrives in waves that require you to help clear the table of dishes you might still be enjoying.
From Washington Post • Sep. 2, 2021
Chris’ response: “Well, the brisket is cooked, sister, so clear the table, slather some sauce on it and go to town.”
From Seattle Times • Feb. 12, 2021
“If you don’t mind, I’ll watch from the porch,” Mom informed us, and stood up to clear the table.
From "Dead End in Norvelt" by Jack Gantos
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.