fit as a fiddle
Meaning
In very good physical condition; healthy and full of energy.
Origin
Recorded from the early 1600s. Here “fit” means “in good condition,” and “fiddle” was chosen for rhyme/alliteration rather than literal meaning; it implies being in excellent shape.
Notes
Cheerful, positive compliment meaning someone seems very healthy/energetic. Common in casual speech. Avoid using it too lightly around serious illness or sensitive situations.
Examples
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After a week of rest, I’m fit as a fiddle and ready to go back to work.
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Grandpa may be 80, but he’s still fit as a fiddle and walks five miles a day.
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I thought the hike would wear her out, but she finished fit as a fiddle.
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He looks fit as a fiddle after his surgery, which is a huge relief for the family.
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Despite the long flight, she arrived fit as a fiddle and went straight to the meeting.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used after a linking verb: “be/feel/look fit as a fiddle.” “As a fiddle” is fixed; you can vary tense/person on the verb (was/feel/looks). Often with intensifiers (right/pretty).
Synonyms
- in tip-top shape
- in great shape
- as fit as a butcher’s dog
- healthy as a horse
- in the pink
Antonyms
- ill
- sick as a dog
- under the weather
- in poor health