kick like a steer

kick like a steer

1. Literally, to kick with great force, especially when trying to injure. The stallion kicked like a steer as the cowboy tried to clamber on. I started kicking like a steer as the officers began wrestling me to the ground.
2. By extension, to have a very powerful recoil. Usually used in reference to firearms. He didn't think the small revolver would pack much of a punch, but the little six-shooter kicked like a steer. Be careful handling that drill. It'll kick like a steer if it gets jammed.
3. To have a very intense taste or potency. Usually used in reference to alcohol, especially hard liquor. This stuff kicks like a steer, but it takes the edge off the cold as it goes down.
4. To protest loudly or vehemently against something. She kicked like a steer when we tried to put her into that boarding school. I personally didn't mind the decision, but I know a lot of people in the company are kicking like steers about it.
See also: kick, like, steer
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • kick like a mule
  • clamber up
  • clamber up (something)
  • cowboy
  • cowboy up
  • steer clear
  • steer clear of
  • steer clear of (someone or something)
  • steer clear of someone/something
  • sprain ankle