Etymology Journal · Y

You're full of beans

Meaning

Used to tell someone they are being silly or talking nonsense. It is a lighthearted way to dismiss someone's wild claim.

Teasing, vintage

Used in a sentence

You think we can fly to the moon in a box? You are full of beans.
Stop telling those tall tales, you are full of beans.
She says she saw a flying saucer, she is full of beans.

The backstory

This phrase dates back to the early 20th century. Beans were often considered a cheap, energizing food, so being full of them meant you were full of restless energy or strange ideas.

Heard in

Midwest

Vibe check