put a lid on
idiomDefinition of put a lid on
1
: to stop (something) from growing or becoming worse
These changes are intended to put a lid on rising medical costs.
2
informal
: to stop doing or saying (something)
He angrily told them to put a lid on their complaints. I'm tired of listening to your complaints, so just put a lid on it!
3
: to cause the end or failure of (something)
The government used the army to put a lid on the rebellion.