Hit the sack

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase Hit the sack, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression Hit the sack used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "Hit the sack"

Meaning

The phrase, ‘hit the sack’ is an idiom used to describe the action of going to bed or the act of sleeping. It is a metaphorical phrase used to indicate the transition from being awake and active, to the state of relaxation that is sleeping.

Etymology

The origin of the phrase, ‘hit the sack’, dates back to the early 19th century when it was first used. It is believed to have originated from the term ‘sack’ which was once used to refer to a bag filled with feathers or straw, which was used as a mattress. Therefore, the phrase ‘hit the sack’ means to literally hit the mattress or bed before climbing in to it and going to sleep.

Usage

The phrase, ‘hit the sack’, is commonly used to indicate or express the idea of going to bed or taking a nap and is seen in both verbal and written communication. In some cases, it may be used as an exclamatory phrase, as in, “It’s time to hit the sack!”. In other cases, it may be used casually, or even humorously, in casual conversations. As a result, it does not have a formal usage and can be used in informal contexts.

Example Sentences

• I'm exhausted so I'm going to hit the sack early tonight.
• I need to hit the sack so I'm ready for work tomorrow.
• It's way past my bedtime, so I'm going to hit the sack.
• My mom always tells me to hit the sack by 10 o'clock.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.