mustard

A phrase emphasizing that something has come too late to be useful (like mustard after meat has already been eaten). A: "Here, I finished my project, Mr. Smith!" B: "Ah, after meat, mustard. I've already submitted your final grade, and it's too late to change it."

A pompous person, especially one in an insignificant job or role. In the 14th century, Pope John XXII had a personal "moutardier" (mustard-maker), to ensure that his food was properly seasoned. All she does is copy files all day, but she acts like she's the pope's mustard maker. I practically have to beg for a chance to use the copier!

To be very enthusiastic about something. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. These new kids are as keen as mustard to be in the choir, so we can definitely get them to clean up the choir room for us.

Sl. to release intestinal gas. (Crude. Use caution with the topic.) Who cut the cheese? People who cut the mustard in the car have to get out and walk.

not satisfactory or right for the situation Cutting taxes for the rich doesn't cut the mustard with most middle-class people.

if you can't cut the mustard, you cannot deal with problems or difficulties If she can't cut the mustard, we'll have to find someone else to do the job.

to be very eager Why don't we ask Tom to captain the cricket team? He's as keen as mustard.

Perform satisfactorily, as in We need a better catcher; this one just doesn't cut the mustard. The origin of this expression is disputed. Some believe it alludes to mustard in the sense of the best or main attraction (owing to its spicing up food), whereas others believe it is a corruption of pass muster. Still others hold that it concerns the preparation of mustard, which involves adding vinegar to mustard seed to "cut" (reduce) its bitterness. The expression is often in negative form, as in the example. [Slang; c. 1900]

To expel intestinal gas.

To perform up to expectations or to a required standard.