How not to say what you mean: A dictionary of euphemisms. R. W. Holder. 2014.
loose cannon — noun count a member of a group or team who tends to do unexpected things that could cause problems for the other members: She was widely regarded as something of a political loose cannon … Usage of the words and phrases in modern English
loose cannon — A person who is very difficult to control and unpredictable is a loose cannon … The small dictionary of idiomes
loose cannon — ► NOUN ▪ an unpredictable person who is liable to cause unintentional damage … English terms dictionary
loose cannon — n. a careless, uncontrollable person using poor judgment, whose unpredictable words or actions cause embarrassment or harm to others … English World dictionary
Loose cannon — The expression loose cannon or loose cannon on rolling deck refers to an irresponsible and reckless individual whose behaviour (either intended or unintended) endangers the group he or she belongs to.The term originates in the Age of Sail and… … Wikipedia
loose cannon — UK / US noun [countable] Word forms loose cannon : singular loose cannon plural loose cannons a member of a group or team who tends to do unexpected things that could cause problems for the other members She was widely regarded as something of a… … English dictionary
loose cannon — 1. noun a) a cannon that breaks loose during battle or a storm and causes serious damage to the ship and its crew Jack is considered a loose cannon due to his volatile personality and track record of demonstrating a lack of ability to maintain… … Wiktionary
loose cannon — Someone who is referred to as a loose cannon cannot be completely trusted because of unpredictable and irresponsible behaviour which can cause trouble. Keep an eye on Jamie. He tends to turn into a loose cannon when he has a few drinks … English Idioms & idiomatic expressions
loose cannon — n. a loudmouth; a braggart. □ As it turned out, he’s not just a loose cannon. He makes sense. □ Some loose cannon in the State Department has been feeding the press all sorts of crap as a diversion … Dictionary of American slang and colloquial expressions
loose cannon — n American a dangerously uncontrolled ally or asso ciate; a member of one s team who is liable to run amok or cause havoc. This piece of political and journalistic jargon has become fashionable in the late 1980s. It continues the nautical image… … Contemporary slang
loose cannon — See a loose cannon … English idioms
