Have feet of clay
verb phrase
To have a hidden flaw, despite appearing strong or perfect.
Even though he is extremely successful, I'm sure he has feet of clay like everyone else.
Often appears as...
- reveal feet of clay
- discover feet of clay
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To have a hidden flaw, despite appearing strong or perfect.
Even though he is extremely successful, I'm sure he has feet of clay like everyone else.
Often appears as...
- reveal feet of clay
- discover feet of clay
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Hidden Weakness
The phrase suggests a surprising flaw in something or someone that looks perfect.
The skilled politician, despite her charisma, had feet of clay when it came to financial matters.
Pro Tip 2/3Literary Origin
It originates from the Bible's Book of Daniel, where a statue with feet of iron and clay collapses.
He was admired like a towering statue but was found to have feet of clay.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Used metaphorically, it applies to situations where something apparently strong has a critical flaw.
The product was revolutionary, yet the company had feet of clay due to poor management.
Pro Tip 1/3Hidden Weakness
The phrase suggests a surprising flaw in something or someone that looks perfect.
The skilled politician, despite her charisma, had feet of clay when it came to financial matters.
Pro Tip 2/3Literary Origin
It originates from the Bible's Book of Daniel, where a statue with feet of iron and clay collapses.
He was admired like a towering statue but was found to have feet of clay.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Used metaphorically, it applies to situations where something apparently strong has a critical flaw.
The product was revolutionary, yet the company had feet of clay due to poor management.
Pro Tip 1/3Hidden Weakness
The phrase suggests a surprising flaw in something or someone that looks perfect.
The skilled politician, despite her charisma, had feet of clay when it came to financial matters.
Pro Tip 2/3Literary Origin
It originates from the Bible's Book of Daniel, where a statue with feet of iron and clay collapses.
He was admired like a towering statue but was found to have feet of clay.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Used metaphorically, it applies to situations where something apparently strong has a critical flaw.
The product was revolutionary, yet the company had feet of clay due to poor management.
Never forget "Have feet of clay"
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