E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
¶ House.
A dwelling.
1
Like a house afire Very rapidly. “He is getting on like a house afire” means he is getting on excellently.
2
To bring down the house (in a theatre, etc.) is to receive unusual and rapturous applause.
3
To keep house. To maintain a separate establishment. “To go into house-keeping” is to start a private establishment.
4
To keep a good house. To supply a bountiful table.
5
To keep open house. To give free entertainment to all who choose to come. “Omnes benigne mensâ occipre.” In French, “Tenir table ouverte.”
6
To throw the house out of the windows. To throw all things into confusion from exuberance of spirit (à des excès de joie). “Cœlum terrœ, terram cœlo miscre;;” or “Omnia confundre.” In French, “Jeter le maison par le fenêtres.”
re.” In French, “Tenir table ouverte.”
re;;” or “Omnia confund
