Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'get one's feet wet.' Discover its historical roots and contemporary relevance.
To “get one’s feet wet” is to begin a new venture or experience, often tentatively or cautiously. It implies taking initial steps into unfamiliar territory, akin to a novice swimmer testing the waters before diving in completely.
The expression “get one’s feet wet” emerged in the early twentieth century, drawing on the metaphor of a cautious swimmer hesitant to enter the water. The phrase echoes sentiments expressed much earlier by John Lyly in Euphues and his England (1580), where he describes those who, once having wet their feet, are less apprehensive about wading deeper. This suggests a long-standing cultural metaphor for overcoming initial hesitance to embrace new experiences.
Semantically, the phrase conveys a sense of initiation and tentative exploration. It suggests a cautious approach to new experiences, emphasizing the gradual transition from inexperience to familiarity. The metaphor of “wet feet” evokes both the literal sensation of water and the figurative idea of venturing into the unknown.
In contemporary culture, “get one’s feet wet” is frequently employed in contexts ranging from professional endeavors to personal growth. It appears in literature and media as a metaphor for beginning new projects or roles. For instance, in Leonard Mosley’s The Glorious Fault (1960), the phrase is used to describe a politician’s cautious engagement in parliamentary life.
In professional settings, “getting one’s feet wet” might refer to a newcomer gradually assuming responsibilities. Socially, it can describe someone trying a new hobby or activity. In literature, it often symbolizes a character’s initial foray into a challenging or unfamiliar situation.
The phrase remains relevant in modern discourse due to its vivid imagery and applicability across various contexts. Its durability is rated at ★★★★☆, indicating strong continued usage and cultural resonance.
“I resemble those that hauing once wet their feete, care not hoe deepe they wade.” - John Lyly, Euphues and his England (1580)
“In parliamentary life, he [Curzon] was to be one who stayed to get his feet wet before deciding that a ship was sinking.” - Leonard Mosley, The Glorious Fault (1960)