thick and threefold: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘thick and threefold’ mean?
The idiom "thick and threefold" means something is very prevalent or abundant, often in a negative or overwhelming sense. It emphasizes the excessive or overwhelming nature of a situation or condition.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "vast majority" refers to an overwhelmingly large or significant portion or number of something.
Vast majority is an idiom that means a large proportion or percentage of something. This idiom is often used to emphasize that something is true or applicable to most of a group or population. When we say "vast majority," we are highlighting the fact that only a small minority falls outside of the described characteristics or conditions.
The idiom "up the yin-yang" is a popular expression in American English.
It refers to the Chinese philosophy of yin-yang, which represents two opposing forces that are interconnected and interdependent.
In this idiom, the word "up" intensifies the meaning, indicating an abundance or excess.
The idiom "two for two" means to have a perfect record or to achieve success twice in a row.
The idiom "tried and tested" means something that has been proven to be effective or reliable through previous experience or testing.
The idiom "to the nth degree" means to the utmost or highest possible extent or degree. It emphasizes the extreme or maximum level of something, often used to describe an action or behavior carried out to the fullest extent.
The idiom "to the max" means to the highest or fullest extent. It is used to emphasize and amplify the intensity, degree, or level of something.
The idiom "to the gills" is used to describe something or someone that is completely full, often to the point of overflowing or being overwhelmed.
The idiom "top-heavy with drink" means someone is heavily intoxicated or drunk. It implies that the person has consumed a large amount of alcohol and is now struggling to maintain their balance or control over their actions.
What is the meaning of the idiom "top-heavy with drink"? Let's dive right into the facts we know about this idiom.
The idiom "too good to be true" means that something appears to be extremely good or favorable, but it is unlikely to be real or genuine.
The idiom "to death" means to an excessive or exaggerated extent, often to the point of becoming tiresome or irritating. It is used to convey the idea of repetition or overdoing something to the point of annoyance.
The Complex Origins
The idiom "thick and threefold" is a phrase that originated in Middle English. In this idiom, the word "thick" comes from Old English, meaning dense or close together. "Threefold," on the other hand, combines "three" and "fold," representing abundance or plenty. This idiom is used to describe something that is plentiful or abundant, often with a negative connotation.
"Thick and threefold" can be found in various literary works throughout history. For instance, it appears in the Book of Ezekiel in the Bible, where it portrays destruction and desolation: "Behold, I, even I, will bring a sword upon you, and I will destroy your high places. And your altars shall be desolate, and your images shall be broken: and I will cast down your slain men before your idols." The idiom is also frequently used in Shakespeare's works, like in "King Lear," where it expresses a sense of intense emotion and excess.
The idiom "come thick and fast" is related to "thick and threefold." It suggests that something is happening rapidly and in large numbers. Imagine a barrage of bullets relentlessly pelting a target or an overwhelming influx of messages flooding your inbox. The phrase "come thick and fast" conveys the idea of overwhelming abundance and rapidity. Just like "thick and threefold," it is often used with a negative connotation.
Another related idiom is "thick and thin," which means through all circumstances, both good and bad. It expresses unwavering commitment or loyalty. It can be seen as a testament to the strength of a relationship or dedication to a cause or belief. No matter what difficulties or challenges arise, one remains steadfast and loyal, supporting and standing by someone or something "thick and thin."
Similarly, the phrase "in the thick of" is connected to the idiom "thick and threefold." It refers to being deeply involved or immersed in a situation or activity. It implies being in the center of the action or in the midst of something significant. When you are "in the thick of" something, you are fully engaged and actively participating in the heart of the matter.
While the idiom "thick and threefold" may not be commonly used in everyday conversation, it holds a special place in literature and is appreciated for its poetic and dramatic effect. Its ability to evoke a sense of abundance and intensity makes it a powerful tool for writers to convey depth of emotion or describe situations of excess. There is something enchanting about the archaic feel of this phrase, adding to its charm and uniqueness.
Although "thick and threefold" may not be widely used today, it is still worth exploring and understanding within its rich historical and literary context. Language continually evolves, but it is important to recognize and appreciate the idioms that have shaped our past and continue to be part of our cultural heritage. Even if this specific phrase may not be commonly spoken, its legacy lives on through literature, reminding us of the depth and beauty of language.
Example usage
1. The consequences of his actions were felt thick and threefold, as he not only lost his job, but also his reputation and the trust of his colleagues.
2. The company's profits increased thick and threefold after they implemented a new marketing strategy and expanded into international markets.
3. The impact of the natural disaster was evident thick and threefold, with the destruction of homes, loss of lives, and widespread devastation in the affected area.
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