go down like a lead balloon Definition

lead²
noun

1. (symbol Pb, atomic number 82) a soft, heavy, bluish-grey, highly toxic metallic element that is resistant to corrosion, used in the building and roofing trades, as a protective shielding against radiation and as a component of high-quality glass and numerous alloys.
2. Graphite.
3. A thin stick of graphite, or some other coloured substance, used in pencils.
4. A lump of lead used for measuring the depth of the water, especially at sea.
5. A sheet of lead for covering roofs; a roof covered with lead sheets.

Form: leads
6. A lead frame for a small window-pane, eg in stained glass windows.
7. A lead weight or piece of lead shot used at the end of a fishing line and in cartridges.

adj

1. Made of lead.

verb leaded, leading

1. To fit or surround with lead.
2. To cover or weight with lead.
3. To set (eg window panes) in lead.
4. printing.
To separate (type) with lead or leads.

Derivative: leading

See separate entry.

Idiom: go down like a lead balloon

facetious
To be spectacularly unsuccessful.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon.