Play possum
Meaning
To feign death or unconsciousness in order to deceive, avoid danger, or escape an unpleasant situation.
Origin
The Virginia opossum, native to the Americas, possesses a remarkable defense mechanism. When threatened, this marsupial does not fight or flee; instead, it collapses, entering a catatonic state where it lies motionless, eyes glazed, tongue lolling, and even emits a foul-smelling fluid from its anal glands to mimic the stench of decay. This involuntary physiological response, known as "thanatosis," convinces predators that the opossum is already dead or diseased, making it an undesirable meal. Early American settlers observed this astonishing act of self-preservation, and the phrase "play possum" was quickly coined to describe someone feigning ignorance or incapacitation to escape a difficult situation.
Examples
- When the doorbell rang, my brother decided to play possum, hoping Mom would answer it instead of him.
- The young fox played possum, lying completely still until the larger predator lost interest and walked away.