hold (one's) thumbs
hold (one's) thumbs
To maintain hope that something will happen or be the case. Primarily heard in South Africa. The team's manager will be holding thumbs that his star player will be healthy enough to play on Saturday. I hope we get the account, but don't hold your thumbs.
See also: hold, thumb
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
hold your thumbs
fold your fingers over your thumbs to bring good luck; hope for luck or success. South African 1987 Sunday Times (South Africa) They say they are holding thumbs for her and praying that the pregnancy will be trouble-free.
See also: hold, thumb
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
hold ˈthumbs
(South African) hope that your plans will be successful or that something will take place in the way that you want it to: Let’s hold thumbs that you get the job.See also: hold, thumb
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- hold thumbs
- hold your thumbs
- chip
- chips
- up on (one's) ear
- cat's pajamas
- turn thumbs down
- turn thumbs down (on something)
- turn thumbs down on someone/something
- Two Bob