raising Cain 

Because Cain was the first murderer in the Bible, having killed his brother Abel, people use the expression "raising Cain" to describe acts of violence, criminal activity, or any other mischievous acts.

Robert: Whatcha gonna do tonight?
Michael: Nothin' much. Guess I'll just be out raising Cain.

raising Cain by Tina R. Collins November 11, 2005

raising Cain 

What his parents apparently did an abysmal job of, if he grew up to be the murderer of his own brother Abel!

Juvenile delinquency may not currently be at an all-time high, but there are still multitudes of offenders --- lots of irresponsible parents still "raising Cains" out there!

raising Cain by QuacksO January 8, 2023

raising Cain 

raising Cain:

1. The act of raising or striking with a cane in anger.

2. Raising Cain from the grave, as in biblical times. (Cain and Abel brothers.)

1. Johnny was raising Cain.

Johnny was so hurt he began raising Cain. (Woke the dead.)

raising Cain by Carolyn N. Holtzman September 7, 2008

raisin Cain 

Making a huge noisy fuss due to your having run out of dehydrated grapes.

Parents should think twice about reaching for the "raisin'-cane" (i.e., the "hick'ry stick" that supposedly helps in bringing up children, but often harms more that it helps; it's been outlawed in many areas of the world, thank goodness!) if their little ones start "raisin Cain" about not having sweet-tasting dried fruit to flavor their morning cereal --- just YOU have a go at trying to choke down a big bowl of unflavored oatmeal or rice, and see how well YOU like it!!!

raisin Cain by QuacksO December 3, 2019