What is the meaning of the phrase ‘as strong as an ox’?
Extremely strong, or having exceptional physical strength or health.
What is the origin of the phrase ‘as strong as an ox’?
The phrase ‘as straight as an arrow’ is a simile, which is a type of metaphor where two things are compared with one another using either the word ‘like’ or the word ‘as’
While the first instance of this phrase in print is not known, we can deduce that it dates back as far as the 17th century. During this time, American settlers used oxen instead of horses, usually in pairs,or plowing, transporting goods, threshing grain, and more.They could work hard without becoming ill. Thus this use of oxen in agricultural endeavours led to oxen becoming a symbol of strength. So someone compared to an ox was considered to be capable of strong physical labour.
From this phrase, a similar phrase developed alongside it, ‘healthy as an ox’. To describe someone in good health.
