pin on

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Meaning · English

To place the blame for (something) on (someone), especially unjustly.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

The police pinned the theft on my brother.

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 “pin on” mean?

To place the blame for (something) on (someone), especially unjustly.

Is “pin on” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.