Welcome aboard, language enthusiasts! 🌊🌬️ Let’s set sail on an adventure into understanding the idiom: “weather eye, to keep a.”
Keeping a Weather Eye
Definition: To remain on guard, to watch out for trouble.
In the seafaring world, keeping a weather eye means looking toward the wind to observe weather conditions and keeping an eye out for impending squalls. First noted in maritime language, according to the Sailor’s Word-Book (Smyth, 1867), it has since migrated ashore and broadened in use. By the late 19th century, this phrase was figuratively implying a vigilant watch over any situation.
“🔎 You know how to keep your weather eye lifting,” wrote Lee Thayer in Murder Is Out (1942).
Related and Similar Expressions:
- Keep one’s ear to the ground: Stay informed about developments.
- Stay on your toes: Be alert and ready for any situation.
- Keep an eye peeled: Be observant and attentive.
- Vigilance is the price of liberty. - Thomas Jefferson
Synonyms:
- Be watchful
- Stay alert
- Keep guard
- Be vigilant
Antonyms:
- Be oblivious
- Ignore
- Neglect
- Be careless
Humor-Filled Quote:
“Vigilance! The act of perpetually guessing which kid broke the vase while pretending you didn’t hear anything.” - A weary parent
Inspirational Proverbs:
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” - Benjamin Franklin
References in Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Book: Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe captures the essence of always being alert and prepared for unexpected storms (both literal and metaphorical).
- Song: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor is a metaphorical anthem about remaining vigilant and sharp.
- Poem: “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley speaks to a resilient and undaunted spirit, emphasizing continual alertness and readiness.
- Movie: Sherlock Holmes films illustrate the importance of keen observation and an ever-vigilant mind to solve mysteries.
Wishing you clear skies and smooth sailing on your journey through the world of expressions. Remain vigilant and let the winds of wisdom guide your way! 🌟
Fair winds and following seas, W. T. Wittywords
