come by honestly come by honestly {v. phr.}, {informal} To inherit (a characteristic) from your parents. Joe comes by his hot temper honestly; his father is the same way. Categories: add yours {informal} {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: C Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Leave my opinion