do a number on
phrase
: to defeat or confound thoroughly especially by indirect or deceptive means
The scandal did a number on his career.
Cite this Entry
“Do a number on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/do%20a%20number%20on. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.
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