big-girl pants

big-girl pants

slang The ability to behave as a mature adult woman should. The phrase is typically used pejoratively to imply that one is not behaving in such a way. Come on, Linda, you need to put on your big-girl pants and own up to your lies. I know you're not a morning person, but put on your big-girl pants and go to work.
See also: pant
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • big-boy pants
  • cherchez la femme
  • femme
  • do-gooder
  • gay as pink ink
  • (as) gay as pink ink
  • as gay as pink ink
  • dude-bro
  • (as) gay as a three-dollar bill
  • big girl's blouse
References in periodicals archive
"They have to put on their big-boy pants and big-girl pants," Somerhalder said, while Dobrev added, "The problem is they keep taking their pants off and that keeps getting in the way of things."
'The Vampire Diaries' Stars Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev Dating?
BLeeD FOR me MicHael robotHaM "Suck it in, princess, and put your big-girl pants on.
BOOK GROUP
She was strong, sassy and sure knew how to work a headband and she was equally comfortable wearing big-girl pants and knee-high boots.
Retail Therapy