The lion’s den
noun
A dangerous, frightening or challenging situation or place.
Speaking against the majority opinion in the meeting felt like entering the lion’s den.
Often appears as...
- enter the lion's den
- step into the lion's den
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
Den or cave where lions live.
The two cubs huddled together in the back of the lion's den.
Often appears as...
- inside the lion's den
- escape from the lion's den
noun
A dangerous, frightening or challenging situation or place.
Speaking against the majority opinion in the meeting felt like entering the lion’s den.
Often appears as...
- enter the lion's den
- step into the lion's den
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
Den or cave where lions live.
The two cubs huddled together in the back of the lion's den.
Often appears as...
- inside the lion's den
- escape from the lion's den
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use
Used figuratively to describe a risky situation, like facing strong opposition.
Questioning the company's policy put him in the lion's den.
Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Origin
This phrase originates from the Biblical story of Daniel, who was thrown into a lion's den.
Standing up to the bullies was like being in the lion's den.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Intensity
Often implies considerable stress or anxiety for the person involved.
He felt he was walking into the lion's den when he went to address the hostile crowd.
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