like a lamb to the slaughter
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
Helplessly and innocently, without knowing the unpleasant consequences.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
1993, a-ha - Lamb To The Slaughter
I went down to the water
Like a lamb to the slaughter
Didn't know what was waiting for me there
Nobody warned me
Nobody told me
My excuse is I wasn't prepared
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “like a lamb to the slaughter” mean?
Helplessly and innocently, without knowing the unpleasant consequences.
Is “like a lamb to the slaughter” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.