put the lid on

phrase

1
: to bring an end to (something)
The new official vowed that he would put the lid on violence once and for all.
2
chiefly British : to spoil (plans)
The rain has really put the lid on our holiday plans.

Examples of put the lid on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Just dump, put the lid on, and wait for the slow cooker magic to happen. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 4 Apr. 2026 Once pan is hot, add the mussels and wine and put the lid on. — Rebekah Evans, theweek, 19 Sep. 2024 Just make sure to put the lid on tightly and give it a good shake. — Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 7 Apr. 2023 Once the water starts to boil, lower the heat to a simmer and put the lid on the pot. — Barbara Bellesi Zito, Peoplemag, 2 Mar. 2023 When the coals are white-gray with ash, pour them into charcoal grate, adding more charcoal if necessary, and put the lid on the grill, making sure the air vents are open all the way. — Ann Maloney, Washington Post, 26 July 2022 Once boiling, stir the rice, put the lid on and turn the heat down. — Lauren Corona, chicagotribune.com, 21 Mar. 2021 Fill it up, put the lid on, throw it in your bag and go anywhere with it. — Elizabeth Wallace, CNN Underscored, 13 Aug. 2020

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Cite this Entry

“Put the lid on.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/put%20the%20lid%20on. Accessed 4 Oct. 2026.

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