make the dust fly

Idioms  

1. Also,. Stir matters up, cause a commotion or disturbance. For example, When she saw the dog sleeping on her new bedspread, she really made the dust fly, or As soon as he learns who dented his car, he'll make the feathers fly, or She'd better not interfere or he'll make the fur fly. The first usage alludes to the results of a vigorous house-cleaning effort. The two variants, both dating from the early 1800s, allude to what happens when a hunting dog is set on a bird or rabbit.

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Example Sentences

My Mop is so big, It might serve as a wig For a judge, had he no objection; And as to my brooms, They will sweep dirty rooms, And make the dust fly, to perfection.

From Project Gutenberg

“Your dad and me had the fun in our time; now you are going to get the other kind; you’re going to make the dust fly that he dug up.”

From Project Gutenberg

I am learning to cook, and simply adore Friday when I can tie up my head and pull the house to pieces and make the dust fly.

From Project Gutenberg

A design educator says he "has the energy and enthusiasm to make the dust fly."

From Time Magazine Archive

"You'll make the dust fly about if you disturb the books, and I can't abide dust."

From Project Gutenberg