draw straws

phrase

: to decide or assign something by lottery in which straws of unequal length are used

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of draw straws was in 1832

Rhymes for draw straws

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Browse Nearby Words

draw step
draw straws
drawstring
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Cite this Entry

“Draw straws.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/draw%20straws. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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