Literal Translation
To be in the kneading trough
Actual Meaning
To be in sticky situation
Etymology
The metaphor dates back to the 12th century and the explanation is simple. The baker’s kneading trough – pétrin – was a wooden chest in which he kneaded bread dough (today, the vat that mixes bread dough has kept the name). The contents of the pétrin are therefore a sticky, doughy substance.
It’s difficult to get out if you fall in!