Where does the expression hold water come from?

Where does the expression hold water come from?

To bear close inspection; to be valid. This expression, used since about 1600, refers to the soundness of a container that holds water without leaking. “Let them produce a more rational account . . . that will hold water,” wrote John French (The Yorkshire Spaw, 1626).

What is the meaning of doesn’t hold water?

phrase. If an argument or theory does not hold water, it does not seem to be reasonable or be in accordance with the facts. This argument simply cannot hold water in Europe. Synonyms: be sound, work, stand up, be convincing More Synonyms of hold water.

What does the idiom hold your water mean?

hold water Stand up to critical examination, be sound and valid, as in This argument just won’t hold water, or Her reasons for quitting don’t hold water. This metaphoric expression alludes to a container that can hold water without leaking. [

Does not hold water metaphor?

not hold water To not be or not appear to be true, verifiable, or able to be supported by facts. The image is of a container with holes in it—a metaphor for a position or argument containing “holes” (errors or gaps in reasoning).

Does not hold water in sentence?

to be inadequate, insubstantial, or ill-conceived. Sorry, your ideas won’t hold water. Nice try, though. The prosecution’s case wouldn’t hold water, so the defendant was released.

Did not hold any water?

COMMON If a theory or an argument does not hold water, you can prove that it is wrong. Note: You can also say that a theory or an argument holds water, meaning that it is true or right. …

Does not hold water idiom sentence?

What does it mean to carry water for someone?

(idiomatic) To perform menial tasks for; to serve; to assist; to be forced by politics or pragmatism to endorse or promote a belief, individual, or organization that in reality one does not fully support.

What does put it on the cuff mean?

extend credit to
1. On credit, as in He tried to hire a detective on the cuff. It is sometimes put as put on the cuff, meaning “extend credit to,” as in They asked to be put on the cuff until they got their monthly check. This usage probably alludes to the practice of recording bar tabs on the bartender’s cuff.