Flat strap Australia informal
This phrase is sometimes hyphenated.
Having a lot to do
Being flat-strap with his part-time job, he neglected his study.
At maximum speed, efficiency, or power
He ran flat-strap to the crime scene to see who was killed.
We are working flat-strap to complete the project on schedule.
Very busy
Being extremely busy or hardworking
If something is packed to the gills, it is completely full.
To do or solve a variety of work or problems at the same time.
Used to say that you are busy and can only do a limited amount of things at once
The phrase's origins may be traced back to the used of "strap" in horseback riding.
Completely dark, without any light or color
I'm scared of the basement! It's as black as a skillet!