Runneth Over Meaning: A Comprehensive Guide
What Does "Runneth Over" Mean?
"Runneth over" is an archaic phrase that means "to overflow," "to be abundant," or "to exceed capacity." It is typically used in a metaphorical sense to describe something that is overflowing with a particular quality or quantity.
Illustrative Examples
- "My heart runneth over with joy." (Meaning: My heart is overflowing with happiness.)
- "The river runneth over its banks." (Meaning: The river is overflowing its banks due to heavy rainfall.)
- "The pantry runneth over with food." (Meaning: The pantry is stocked to overflowing capacity with food.)
Origin and Usage
The phrase "runneth over" originated in the 16th century and is derived from the verb "run," which means "to flow." It is often used in literary and religious texts, particularly in the Bible. For example, in Psalm 23, it is written: "My cup runneth over," which signifies an abundance of blessings.
Synonyms and Phrases
Some common synonyms for "runneth over" include:
- Overflow
- Be abundant
- Exceed capacity
- Teem with
- Be replete
- Burgeon
Related Phrases
There are several related phrases that share a similar meaning to "runneth over," such as:
- Flowing over: Literally means something is flowing over the edge of a container.
- Brimful: Describes something that is filled to the brim.
- Copious: Refers to something that is plentiful or abundant.
- Lavish: Describes something that is excessive or extravagant.
Figurative Use
In addition to its literal meaning, "runneth over" is often used figuratively to convey an overwhelming sense of abundance, joy, or emotion. For example, one might say, "My love for you runneth over," to express the overflowing nature of one's love.
The phrase "runneth over" is a powerful expression that signifies abundance, overflowing, or exceeding capacity. It has a rich history and is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts to convey a sense of fullness and plenitude.
