Meaning: This idiom means to be inattentive, distracted, or not fully aware of what is happening. It implies that someone is not paying attention or is out of touch with reality.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “He didn’t respond when I asked him a question; he seemed completely out to lunch.”
- “She made a bizarre comment that made it clear she was out to lunch during the meeting.”
- “When it comes to technology, my grandfather is completely out to lunch.”
Origin: The origin of the idiom “out to lunch” is believed to be from the literal phrase indicating that someone is not present because they are out having lunch. Over time, it evolved into a figurative expression suggesting that someone is mentally absent, inattentive, or not fully engaged in the current situation. The idiom became popular in the mid-20th century and has since been commonly used to describe someone who is distracted or out of touch with their surroundings.
