Etymology Journal ยท C
Come hell or high water
Meaning
- This means you are committed to doing something no matter what obstacles stand in your way. It signifies absolute determination in the face of adversity.
Resolute, defiant
Used in a sentence
- I will get this project finished by Friday come hell or high water.
- We are going to make it to that wedding come hell or high water.
- I promised the kids a beach trip, and I am taking them come hell or high water.
The backstory
The phrase dates back to the mid-19th century. It refers to two forces that were considered insurmountable for early travelers: the fires of hell or a massive flood.
Heard in
Nationwide
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