A/the sword of Damocles
noun
A situation where there is constant danger or a threat hanging over someone.
The possibility of bankruptcy is a sword of Damocles hanging over the company's future.
Often appears as...
- hangs like a sword of damocles
- sword of damocles is over
Usage tips
Formal
Idiomatic
noun
A situation where there is constant danger or a threat hanging over someone.
The possibility of bankruptcy is a sword of Damocles hanging over the company's future.
Often appears as...
- hangs like a sword of damocles
- sword of damocles is over
Usage tips
Formal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Origin
Originally from an ancient Greek tale, symbolizes dire or extreme risk.
Ever since the scandal, the CEO's career has been under the sword of Damocles.
Pro Tip 2/3Imminent Danger
The phrase suggests a threat could become reality at any moment.
Living close to an active volcano is like having a sword of Damocles hanging over the village.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Weight
Conveys feelings of stress or anxiety due to the impending threat.
With the court date approaching, the sword of Damocles hung heavily over him.
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Origin
Originally from an ancient Greek tale, symbolizes dire or extreme risk.
Ever since the scandal, the CEO's career has been under the sword of Damocles.
Pro Tip 2/3Imminent Danger
The phrase suggests a threat could become reality at any moment.
Living close to an active volcano is like having a sword of Damocles hanging over the village.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Weight
Conveys feelings of stress or anxiety due to the impending threat.
With the court date approaching, the sword of Damocles hung heavily over him.
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Origin
Originally from an ancient Greek tale, symbolizes dire or extreme risk.
Ever since the scandal, the CEO's career has been under the sword of Damocles.
Pro Tip 2/3Imminent Danger
The phrase suggests a threat could become reality at any moment.
Living close to an active volcano is like having a sword of Damocles hanging over the village.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Weight
Conveys feelings of stress or anxiety due to the impending threat.
With the court date approaching, the sword of Damocles hung heavily over him.
Never forget "A/the sword of Damocles"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension