Under the hammer Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If something is 'under the hammer', it means it is being sold at an auction. The phrase comes from the auctioneer's use of a hammer to signal a sale.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiomatic and somewhat formal expression, often in news or business contexts. Always refers to being sold at auction, not just any sale. Common with houses, art, or valuable items. Often appears as 'go under the hammer' or 'put under the hammer'.
Example Sentences
The painting is under the hammer this afternoon.
basic
Thousands of books will go under the hammer next week.
basic
The house is under the hammer because the owner cannot pay the bills.
basic
I can't believe her father's car is going under the hammer this Friday.
natural
When the company went bankrupt, everything went under the hammer.
natural
Rare coins come under the hammer at next month’s auction.
natural