circling the drain

time is running out; getting closer to the inevitable

The healthy climates of earth are circling the drain!

by talk2me-JCH2 June 5, 2022

circling the drain

adj. still alive, but about to kick the bucket, buy the farm, meet your maker, etc.

Grandpa was circling the drain for years, and finally bought the farm, leaving a large estate.

by fizzle April 11, 2004

circling the drain

Term used in medical circles to describe a patient for whom death is impending and yet continues to cling to life

"Mrs. Robinson in room 203 has been circling the drain all week.. damn man, we really need the room!"

by Mister Defino December 11, 2004

circling the drain

When you are unsure if your partner is ok with sticking your figure in their butt, so you just circle around before you stick it in.

Yeah man, I was circling the drain until she said, "you can knock at the door, but you can't go in."

by skinnyb69 May 18, 2016

circling the drain

Headed down and won't recover.

He was circling the drain and never recovered.

by Billy Amithig Biblick January 25, 2016

circle the drain

to gradually die (literally or figuratively)

When Dan started telling the girl at the bar that he lived in a barn with 3 sheep, 2 horses, and his parents, his chances of beating it up that night started circling the drain.

by Nick D September 25, 2003

circle the drain

To meander, undirected towards an inevitable destination.

The conference call began with the usual decorum. However, after the first agenda item was introduced, the team began to circle the drain and wasted the entire hour and $1500 telecommunication fees, debating the necessity of the Risk Management Department.

by CW November 26, 2003