This expression means escaped by a narrow margin from a possible accident. The saying comes from the fact that, if somebody shaves too close with his razor to get rid of excess hair, he can easily cut himself. The phrase was in use by 1834 in the United States.

Übersetzung:

noch einmal glimpflich davon kommen

Gegenteil(e)

The opposite of "to have a close shave" is "to find oneself deep in the mire".

Synonym(e):

You could also say: to narrowly escape.