fill one’s boots: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘fill one's boots’ mean?

The idiom "fill one's boots" means to take full advantage or make the most of an opportunity, often in a selfish or greedy way.

Idiom Explorer

Harness Full Potential

The idiom "fill one's hand" is related to the expression "fill one's boots" in terms of the concept of taking or obtaining as much as one desires. "Fill one's hand" suggests the idea of acquiring or grasping something to the fullest extent possible, similar to "fill one's boots." However, "fill one's hand" specifically refers to the physical act of taking or holding something in one's hand, while "fill one's boots" has a broader connotation that encompasses obtaining or indulging in something in general.

"get one's fill" is another idiomatic phrase related to "fill one's boots" as it shares a similar meaning of indulging or satisfying one's desires. "Get one's fill" suggests the act of obtaining or experiencing something to the point of satisfaction or contentment. It implies that one has had enough or fulfilled their craving for something, just like "fill one's boots" conveys a sense of abundance or satisfaction in obtaining as much as one desires.

Fill in the boots: an expression with multiple meanings.

"fill one's face" is a related idiom that shares similarities with "fill one's boots" in terms of indulgence or satisfaction. However, "fill one's face" specifically refers to the act of eating or consuming food to the maximum extent possible. It implies a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment in consuming a large quantity of food, while "fill one's boots" can encompass obtaining or indulging in various things, not just food.

"make the best of one's way" is an idiomatic phrase that can be related to "fill one's boots" in the sense of making the most of a favorable opportunity or circumstance. "Make the best of one's way" suggests the idea of navigating or progressing through a situation or path in the most favorable or advantageous manner possible. It implies a sense of seizing the opportunity and maximizing one's potential, similar to the concept of making the most of a favorable circumstance in "fill one's boots."

"give one's all" is an expression that relates to "fill one's boots" in terms of putting forth maximum effort or dedication. "Give one's all" suggests the act of giving or dedicating all of one's energy, effort, or resources to a particular task or endeavor. It conveys a sense of commitment and wholeheartedness, similar to the idea of taking full advantage of an opportunity or situation in "fill one's boots."

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "fill one's boots" can be used in a sentence:

  • He won the lottery and decided to fill his boots by traveling the world.
  • After studying hard for the exam, she filled her boots with confidence.
  • The company announced a bonus program, allowing employees to fill their boots with extra money.

More "Usage" idioms