Meaning: To go to bed or to go to sleep.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “I’m exhausted after a long day of work; I think I’ll hit the hay early tonight.”
- “It’s past midnight; time to hit the hay and get some rest before tomorrow’s big presentation.”
- “The party was fun, but now it’s time for everyone to hit the hay and recharge for tomorrow.”
Origin: The origins of the idiom “hit the hay” can be traced back to rural America in the late 19th century. During this time, mattresses were often stuffed with hay or straw, providing a simple and comfortable bedding option. When it was time to sleep, people would literally “hit” or pat down the hay to make it more comfortable before lying down for the night. Over time, the expression evolved to mean going to bed or getting some sleep, regardless of the type of bedding being used.
