walk on water: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘walk on water’ mean?
The idiom walk on water means to do something miraculous or extraordinary, often with a sense of superiority or arrogance.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "walk over" means to defeat or overcome someone or something easily, without much effort or resistance. It conveys the idea of being in complete control or dominance over a situation or a person.
The idiom "walk on the wild side" means to engage in risky or unconventional behavior, often associated with breaking societal norms or boundaries.
The idiom "walk on sunshine" means to be extremely happy and filled with joy. It conveys a sense of elation and positivity, as if one is metaphorically floating or skipping along without a care in the world.
The idiom "walk on broken glass" means to endure a tremendously difficult or painful situation without showing any signs of discomfort or weakness.
"Walk on broken glass" is a figurative expression that means to endure a difficult or painful situation. It can be traced back to the early 20th century.
The idiom "walk off with" means to take or steal something, often quickly or unexpectedly.
The idiom "walk in the snow" refers to a difficult or challenging task that requires extra effort and perseverance. It suggests overcoming obstacles and making progress despite unfavorable conditions. This idiom emphasizes the need for resilience and determination when faced with adversity.
The idiom "walk in the park" is a commonly used phrase in American English. It is an expression that describes something that is easy or simple to accomplish.
The idiom "walk all over" means to treat someone poorly or without respect, taking advantage of their weakness or vulnerability.
The idiom "there must be something in the water" means that a group of people in a certain place share a similar unusual behavior or characteristic, often implying that they are all acting strangely or unusually.
Unearthing Biblical Origins
Walking on water is a remarkable ability that has captivated people's imaginations across different cultures and religions. It symbolizes the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary feats. One of the most famous accounts of walking on water comes from the Bible, specifically in the New Testament of the Christian scriptures. In the book of Matthew, it recounts the story of Jesus Christ walking on the Sea of Galilee during a storm, which astounded his disciples. This miraculous act serves as a powerful symbol of Jesus' divine nature and his ability to transcend the laws of nature ("walk on sunshine").
This concept of walking on water is not limited to Christianity alone. It has been featured in various mythologies and folktales throughout history. For instance, in Greek mythology, the god Hermes was believed to possess the ability to walk on water. This further solidifies the idea of walking on water as a supernatural power ("walk on the wild side"). Similarly, in Chinese mythology, there is a mythological figure known as the Four Dragon Kings who can also walk on water, showcasing this ability's presence in different cultures.
Though the phrase "walk on water" originated from religious and mythological contexts, it has taken on a figurative meaning in modern times. It is now commonly used in the English language to describe individuals who have exceptional abilities or talents. When we say that someone "walks on water," we are emphasizing their remarkable achievements or skills in an exaggerated manner. It highlights their ability to excel effortlessly in their respective fields ("like a duck to water").
The enduring popularity of the idiom "walk on water" can be attributed to its ability to capture our imagination and tap into our fascination with the extraordinary. It takes us beyond the realm of what we perceive as possible and reminds us that there are limitless possibilities and unknown realms. Whether used metaphorically or in reference to religious and mythological stories, the phrase evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity, encouraging us to explore and push our own boundaries.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "walk on water" can be used in a sentence:
- She is so talented, it's as if she can walk on water.
- The CEO's ability to handle difficult situations made him seem like he could walk on water.
- After years of hard work and dedication, he was finally able to walk on water and achieve his dream of becoming a professional athlete.
More "Miracles" idioms
