hit the fan

phrase

: to have a major usually undesirable impact

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hit the fan was circa 1943

Rhymes for hit the fan

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Browse Nearby Words

hit the dirt
hit the fan
hit the gas
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hit the fan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hit%20the%20fan. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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