# smell the barn

> English word · Verb · IPA /ˌsmɛl ðə ˈbaːn/

## Definitions
1. To act with renewed energy or speed or to experience heightened anticipation as one approaches a destination, goal, or other desired outcome.

## Etymology
A reference to a livestock animal returning to its barn at the end of the day, especially a horse drawing a carriage which is on the way back home.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/smell-the-barn