Traditional
Still common
Definition
Extremely busy, going at full pace.
Example Sentence
"Can't chat, we're flat out at work today."
Where "Flat Out" Comes From
"Flat out" comes from the image of an engine or animal running at absolute full speed, flat to the ground, with nothing held back.
It moved from describing speed to describing busyness in general Australian usage during the 20th century.
How Aussies Actually Use It
It's used for anything from a hectic work shift to a jam-packed weekend with no downtime.
The full version, "flat out like a lizard drinking", adds an extra bit of very Australian imagery for comic effect.
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