Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural significance of the phrase 'make one’s mouth water,' from its historical roots to its contemporary relevance.
To “make one’s mouth water” is an idiomatic expression used to describe the elicitation of intense desire or eager anticipation in an individual. While the phrase originally referred to the physical reaction of salivating in anticipation of food, it has since evolved to encompass a broader range of human desires and anticipations.
The phrase “make one’s mouth water” finds its roots in the physiological response of salivation, a natural reaction when one anticipates the consumption of food. The earliest recorded usage of this phrase in a metaphorical sense can be traced back to Richard Eden’s The Decades of the New Worlde (1555), where it described cannibals anticipating their prey. By the time Samuel Butler employed the expression in his satirical poem Hudibras (1663), the phrase had already transitioned into a figurative context, signifying anticipation and desire beyond mere food-related contexts.
The phrase “make one’s mouth water” conveys a sense of anticipation and longing, often associated with something highly desirable or appealing. While its literal interpretation pertains to the anticipation of a delectable meal, its figurative usage extends to various scenarios where one experiences strong desire or eagerness, such as the anticipation of a rewarding experience or the allure of a coveted object.
In contemporary culture, the phrase is frequently employed in both everyday conversation and literary contexts to evoke imagery of desire and anticipation. It appears in culinary writing to describe appetizing dishes and in broader cultural discourse to articulate longing for non-gastronomic experiences. For instance, in marketing and advertising, the phrase is often used to suggest that a product is irresistibly appealing.
In professional culinary contexts, the phrase is predominantly used in its literal sense, describing the anticipation of tasting food. In literary and social contexts, it often takes on a metaphorical dimension, describing any scenario where anticipation and desire are heightened, such as the excitement preceding a significant event or the allure of an attractive proposition.
The phrase “make one’s mouth water” remains highly relevant in contemporary language, particularly within culinary and metaphorical contexts. Its vivid imagery and versatility in describing various forms of desire contribute to its enduring usage. Durability rating: ★★★★☆
“The very thought of the feast made his mouth water.” - Samuel Butler, Hudibras (1663)