take sb's name in vain UK HUMOROUS
to criticize someone or talk about someone without respect, especially when they are not there

[TahlilGaran] Advanced Learner's Dictionary ▲

take name in vain
take (someone's) name in vain
[humorous]
to say someone's name when they are not there, usually when you are criticizing them.
Did I hear someone taking my name in vain?

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

take someone's name in vain
take (someone's) name in vain
[humorous]
to say someone's name when they are not there, usually when you are criticizing them.
Did I hear someone taking my name in vain?

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

take one's name in vain
v. phr.
1. To call upon (God) as a witness to your truth or honesty when you are lying; swear by (God) untruthfully.
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
2. informal To talk about a person or mention his name.
"Did I hear someone taking my name in vain?" asked Bill as he joined his friends.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲