Feet of clay

Posted by Marcus on January 26, 2001

In Reply to: Feet of clay posted by R. Berg 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.

: Not one to quote the Bible, may I suggest Daniel.

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