strike a chord

Idioms and Phrases

Trigger a feeling or memory, as in That poem strikes a chord in all those touched by the Holocaust . This term alludes to striking the strings or keys of a musical instrument. [First half of 1800s] Also see strike the right note .

Related Words

• affect
• disturb
• excite
• grab
• impress
• influence
• inspire
• mark
• move
• stir
• strike
• stroke
• upset