The Village Idiom

come home to roost

The idiom *come home to roost* means that the negative consequences of one's actions will eventually catch up with them.

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In a sentence

  • His lies eventually came home to roost when his reputation was destroyed.
  • The consequences of her actions came home to roost when she lost her job.
  • The financial decisions made by the company came home to roost when they faced bankruptcy.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "the chickens come home to roost" is closely related to the expression "come home to roost." Both idioms convey a similar meaning, emphasizing the consequences or negative outcomes of one's actions. While "come home to roost" is a more general phrase, "the chickens come home to roost" specifically evokes the image of chickens returning to their coop at night, symbolizing the inevitable reckoning for past actions or decisions.

These idioms all revolve around the concept of actions having consequences. Whether it's "the chickens come home to roost," "get what's coming to one," "catch it," or "come a cropper," they all convey the idea that individuals will eventually face the results of their actions. These idioms serve as reminders of personal responsibility and the inevitability of the repercussions of our choices. Just like birds returning to their roost, we must confront and acknowledge the consequences of our actions.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.