The Archive

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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