My parents said that if I don't shape up, they were going to give me an old tomato. What does that mean?

Question

My parents said that if I don't shape up, they were going to give me an old tomato. What does that mean?

Answer 1

That took me a minute to get that one. I must losing my edge. Well old tomatoes are what a parent does to a child when they are frustrated.

For example, when they don't clean their room up, make their beds, empty the dishwasher, pick up their towels, etc. (hmm..that sound familiar) Anyhoo, they are planning to throw old tomatoes at you, so I'd shape up real quickly, Mr.

Good luck and I hope this helps!

Answer 2

I think you misunderstood them.  It's not "Old Tomato", it's "Ultimatum".  That means a consequence for your actions - like "If you don't shape up, you will be grounded", or, "if you do that one more time I'll take the car keys".  Like that.  

Answer 3

i know exactly what they mean. i did this to my son when he was little. i made him smash and old tomato in his face and wear the juice all day. it taught him to behave and that sticky juice made him remember how bad he is.