straight and narrow

noun

: the way of propriety and rectitude

—used with the

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of strait and narrow; from the admonition of Matthew 7:14 (King James Version), "strait is the gate and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life"

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of straight and narrow was in 1906

See more words from the same year

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Straight and narrow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/straight%20and%20narrow. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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