What Does “That’s a Wrap” Mean?

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Plus, where this phrase came from and how to use it in conversation
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You might have heard the phrase “that’s a wrap” in movies, TV shows, or personal conversations, but what does this idiom actually mean? If you’re looking for the answer to this question, you’re in luck! We’ll go over the definition of the phrase “that’s a wrap” and explain it came from. We’ll also cover the correct way to use this phrase in conversation, so keep reading!

“That’s a Wrap” Definition

“That’s a wrap” means “that’s finished” or “that’s done.” Movie directors used to shout out this phrase when they finished filming a movie, but now people use it in all kinds of situations. For example, at the end of a work meeting, your boss could say, “That’s a wrap! See you all next week."

Section 1 of 3:

“That’s a Wrap” Meaning & Origin

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  1. The phrase originated in Hollywood, where directors would shout “that’s a wrap” when they’d finished filming a movie or a scene. [1] Over the years, the phrase has become popular outside of movie-making, and people now say it in various situations to signal that something has concluded. Here are a few examples:
    • “Alright folks, that’s a wrap! You’ve all put in so much hard work during the filming of this movie, and you should be proud of your accomplishment. Go home, get some rest, and celebrate!”
    • “Okay everyone, that’s a wrap. Thank you all so much for helping me set up these decorations for tomorrow’s fundraiser. Now go home and rest up before the big day!”
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Section 2 of 3:

How to Use “That’s a Wrap” in Conversation

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  1. The phrase often has a celebratory connotation, and it essentially means, “We did it! We can go home now!” To embody this energy, try saying “that’s a wrap” when you’ve just completed a difficult task or accomplished an impressive feat. For example:
    • “That’s a wrap for the night, everyone! Thank you all for hanging in there with me through this long meeting. Now head home and enjoy your weekend!”
    • “Alright everyone, that’s a wrap on today’s yoga class. I’ve been seeing so much improvement in everyone’s form. Keep up the good work!”
    • “That’s a wrap on my final essay! I finally finished proofreading and just submitted it. I can’t wait to kick back, relax, and enjoy the summer.”
  2. Some people use “that’s a wrap” to inform others that a friendship, romantic relationship, job, or some other situation has ended. In this context, the phrase has a less positive and celebratory tone, but it does lighten the mood when discussing these difficult topics.
    • “Unfortunately, it's a wrap on my friendship with Brianna. She’s changed a lot over the past several years, and our fight last week was the final straw.”
    • “Jack and I broke up last weekend. We suddenly just looked at each other and were like, ‘That’s a wrap.’ I'm sad, but at least we’re parting on good terms.”
    • “I’ve been unhappy at work for a long time, but after my favorite coworker left, I was like, ‘That’s a wrap, folks!’ I turned in my two week notice that day.”
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Section 3 of 3:

Similar Phrases

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  1. When something is “done and dusted,” it’s finished and complete. [2] There’s nothing more to do or say, and all the loose ends are tied up. [3] For example:
    • “Aright, this project is done and dusted! I think we've covered everything we needed to. Good work, everyone.”
    • “My passport application is done and dusted. I just submitted it, so now we just wait for my new passport to come in the mail.”
  2. Just like “that’s a wrap,” people say the phrase “mission accomplished” to celebrate when they’ve completed a task, project, or assignment. [4]
    • “Okay, mission accomplished. I just submitted my essay with minutes to spare before the deadline. Let’s go out and celebrate!”
    • “I finished wrapping and hiding all her birthday presents before she made it home from work. Mission accomplished!”
  3. When something is “in the can,” this means it is completely finished. [5] This phrase is essentially a synonym for “that’s a wrap,” and it can be used in pretty much the same way.
    • “Alright guys, that’s another rehearsal in the can! Head home and rest up before opening night tomorrow.”
    • “Our group finished the assignment last night. It’s in the can and ready to present in class tomorrow.”
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/wrap
      2. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/be-done-and-dusted
      3. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/done-and-dusted
      4. ↑ https://www.yourdictionary.com/mission-accomplished
      5. ↑ https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/in-the-can

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