to the wall adv. phr. Into a place from which there is no escape; into a trap or corner.
■ Usually used after "drive" or a similar word.
John's failing the last test drove him to the wall. The score was 12-12 in the last minute of play, but a touchdown forced the visitors to the wall. Bill had to sell his five Great Danes. The high cost of feeding them was driving him to the wall. [TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲