1
general::
Phrase(s): out of order
1. Lit. [of something or things] out of the proper sequence. • She noticed that the books on the shelf were out of order. • All these cards were alphabetized, and now they’re out of order. 2. Fig. [of something] incapable of operating; [of something] broken. • The elevator is out of order again. • My stereo is out of order. 3. Fig. not following correct parliamentary procedure. • I was declared out of order by the chair. • Anne inquired, "Isn’t a motion to table the question out of order at this time?"
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Not functioning well, not operating properly or at all, as in The oil burner is out of order again. [Mid1500s] 2. Unsuitable, inappropriate, as in Her comments about the management were out of order. Also see OUT OF LINE, def. 1. 3. Not following parliamentary procedure, as in The chair called him out of order.
American Heritage Idioms