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# off with the pixies

idiom (adjective phrase used after «be»: off with the pixies); pixies = small magic creatures in stories

«off with the pixies» in the English dictionary: in the primary school — its meanings, how the lessons use it, and examples, each with its tree on Mova.

## In the primary school

Source: Mova's pupils' dictionary. Licence: [Elamur Cosmic License](https://mova.elamur.ai/free/en/docs/LICENSE/). Reviewed: the dictionary the pupils of Mova's primary school read; its examples quote the lessons and public-domain tales. Ships with Mova.

### Meaning

1. (euphemism, NZ, Australia) daydreaming; not paying attention.
2. (euphemism, informal) a bit mad, out of touch with reality, or confused.

### In the lessons

New Zealanders and Australians say it lightly about someone who is lost in thought or a little odd. Everyday register, mainly New Zealand, also Australia and UK.

### Examples

- Sorry, I was off with the pixies — what did you say?
- Grandad's a bit off with the pixies these days.
- Kids, stop being off with the pixies and finish your work.
- She stared out the window, off with the pixies.
- Anyone who thinks the bus will come on time is off with the pixies.
- You put the cereal in the fridge? You're off with the pixies, mate.

### Note

About daydreaming it is gentle; about old people it can hint at memory loss and be unkind. Plain words: daydreaming, not paying attention, confused.