hit the ground—(also: hit ground)
1. fall to the ground suddenly (to avoid being shot, etc.):
- The voice was cut out by a sudden blast of gunfire. He hit the ground and readied his rifle.
2. (of a storm, etc.) come with forcible impact:
- We watched a straight and narrow tornado hit the ground a few miles north of the highway.
3. (of a ship) run aground:
- Heavy winds began to pull it toward land, and at about 6 pm, the ship hit ground and split apart.
hit the ground running—start a new job or endeavor efficiently, with a great deal of energy:
- There are plenty of challenges facing the state, and Heath said he believes he will hit the ground running if elected.