kick like a mule

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kick like a mule (third-person singular simple present kicks like a mule, present participle kicking like a mule, simple past and past participle kicked like a mule)

1. (simile) To have a very strong physical effect

   This Russian drink tastes foul, but it kicks like a mule.

   • 1972, David Bowie (lyrics and music), “All the Young Dudes”, performed by Mott the Hoople:

     Now Lucy looks sweet cause he dresses like a queen
     But he can kick like a mule, it's a real mean team