How to Pronounce "over a barrel"
expression
ˈoʊvɝ/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈbæɹəɫ/, /ˈbɛɹəɫ
OH-vur-uh-BAIR-uhl
ˈəʊvɐ/ /æɪ/ /bˈæɹəl
OH-vuh-uh-BA-ruhl
Definition
If someone has you over a barrel, you are in a weak position and have no control, often because someone else has power over you or you have no better choice.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈoʊvɝ/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈbæɹəɫ/, /ˈbɛɹəɫ
British English
ˈəʊvɐ/ /æɪ/ /bˈæɹəl
Simplified Pronunciation
US
OH-vur-uh-BAIR-uhl
UK
OH-vuh-uh-BA-ruhl
Listen in Context
The boss had me over a barrel and I had to work late.
They have us over a barrel—we can't say no to their demands.
She felt over a barrel because she needed the money.
I'm really over a barrel here—my rent is due tomorrow and I lost my wallet.