make the welkin ring

The idiom "make the welkin ring" is a phrase that has been used in the English language for centuries. It is derived from the Middle English word "welken," meaning to bellow or make a loud noise. The word "welkin" itself refers to the sky or the heavens, and is often used in poetic or archaic contexts.

The phrase "make the welkin ring" is often used to describe a loud, resounding noise or a clamorous outburst. It is typically used metaphorically to convey a sense of great enthusiasm, excitement, or jubilation. The image of the welkin ringing evokes a sense of sound filling the vast expanse of the heavens, reaching far and wide.

This idiom first appeared in written form in the late 16th century, in a play by Thomas Kyd called "The Spanish Tragedy." In one of the scenes, a character exclaims, "Now, heaven and earth, make the welkin ring." This early usage suggests that the phrase was already known and understood by the audience at that time.

Over the years, "make the welkin ring" has been commonly used in literature, poetry, and drama to emphasize the power and impact of a loud noise or a raucous celebration. It has also been used in political speeches and public gatherings to encourage a crowd to cheer or applaud enthusiastically.

The idiom has maintained its popularity and usage into the present day, although it is more commonly found in older writings or as a literary flourish. The phrase has become somewhat archaic in modern usage, and is not as widely recognized or understood as some other idiomatic expressions.

While the exact origins of the idiom are unclear, it is likely rooted in the human fascination with sound, particularly loud and impressive sounds. The image of the welkin ringing captures the imagination, invoking a sense of awe and wonder at the power of noise and its ability to reverberate through the heavens.

The idiom "make waves" is related to "make the welkin ring" in that both phrases convey a sense of making a significant impact or creating a stir. While "make the welkin ring" emphasizes the power and reach of a loud noise, "make waves" suggests the creation of a disturbance or disruption that ripples outward.