Meaning
- have a flaw or weakness most people are unaware of.
The phrase " feet of clay " refers to a flaw or weakness in the character of a person who is otherwise admired or respected. This weakness can cause them to fail or collapse, often leading to disappointment or disillusionment. The phrase suggests that despite appearances, even those in positions of power or authority are ultimately human and fallible.
Example Sentences
- Despite his success in business, it was later revealed that the CEO had feet of clay when it came to personal ethics.
- The politician was once seen as a promising leader, but his scandalous behavior showed that he had feet of clay.
- The superstar athlete's reputation suffered a blow when he was caught using performance-enhancing drugs, revealing that he too had feet of clay.
- The CEO's public image was shattered when it was discovered that he had been embezzling company funds, exposing his feet of clay.
- Some of the greatest people in history had feet of clay.
Origin
The phrase "feet of clay" has its roots in the Old Testament of the Bible. In the Book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar dreams of a statue with a head of gold, a chest and arms of silver, a belly and thighs of bronze, legs of iron, and feet partly of iron and partly of clay. The statue represents a succession of world empires, with the feet of clay symbolizing weakness and vulnerability.
