the penny drops

Definition

Understanding is reached; one comprehends.

Example Sentences

• "The penny dropped as Fred realised he had been conned."
• "Suddenly various pennies began to drop; now I understood obscure remarks that had been made in my presence by the Ryans, or by the nuns at school, or by Old Brigid or Tommy's foster-mother."
• "AMY: In the time I've known you, when have you shown the slightest interest in a girl? MELS: Penny in the air! AMY: I've known you for, what, 10 years? I've seen you practically every day. Name one girl you've paid the slightest bit of attention to? (RORY is flustered, runs from the room.) AMY: Oh my God! Rory! (AMY runs after RORY.) MELS: And the penny drops!"