close shave

[ klohs ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a narrow escape from serious danger or trouble:

   We weren't hit when the truck swerved at us, but it was a close shave.

close shave

/ kləʊs /

noun

1. informal.
   a narrow escape

Word History and Origins

Origin of close shave¹

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

Idioms and Phrases

see close call .

Example Sentences

It was a close shave, for only by sending them down by passenger train on that morning were they able to reach Southampton.

From Project Gutenberg

“That was a pretty close shave you had this afternoon, Miss Peggy,” Howard began.

From Project Gutenberg

The light grew faint, and in the glimmer there was a close shave at the edge of a hazardous bridge over a deep, deep ravine.

From Project Gutenberg

It is admitted on all hands, however, that it was a remarkably close shave.

From Project Gutenberg

Oh, I know; but it's one that did not end in a fine, though it was a very close shave.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• close call
• shocker