Feet of clay

Posted by R. Berg on January 25, 2001

In Reply to: Feet of clay posted by Patty on January 25, 2001

: What is the meaning of the phrase "feet of clay"?

To find that somebody has feet of clay means to realize that the person is phony or at least fallible. The phrase originated with the idea of looking at a statue made of something wonderful, let's say gold, and then seeing with disappointment that the statue's feet were mere clay. I think some real statues or idols were involved; maybe somebody else can fill in the history here.

• Feet of clay marcus 01/26/01
  • Feet of clay ESC 01/26/01
    • Feet of clay marcus 01/27/01