over the hills and far away: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘over the hills and far away’ mean?
The idiom "over the hills and far away" means to be in a distant or unreachable place, often used to describe someone who is escaping or avoiding a situation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take to the hills" means to flee or escape from a dangerous or difficult situation by moving to higher ground or more remote areas.
The idiom "pull away" means to move backwards, leave or break free from a situation or person. It often implies a sudden or forceful action that creates distance or separation.
The idiom "over the top" means to be excessive or exaggerated in behavior, action or expression.
The idiom "over the moon" means to be extremely happy or delighted about something, often to the point of feeling euphoric or elated.
The idiom "over the line" means to cross a boundary or limit, often in behavior or speech, that is considered inappropriate, unacceptable, or offensive.
The idiom "over the hill" refers to reaching a point in life where someone is considered old or past their prime, often used to describe someone who is no longer young or able to do things as well as they used to.
The idiom "overstep the mark" means to go beyond the limits of what is considered acceptable or appropriate behavior.
The idiom "over one's head" means to be too difficult or complex for someone to understand or comprehend.
The idiom "over and over again" means repeatedly doing or experiencing something.
Beyond the Horizon
The idiom "over the hills and far away" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It has a rich history and meaning, originating in British folklore and literature as a symbol of exploration and wanderlust.
First appearing in John Playford's collection of English country dances in 1670, the phrase gained popularity through the works of English poet Charles Dibdin in the late 18th century. Dibdin used it as the title of a song, further cementing its place in English language and culture.
Initially, "over the hills and far away" was used to describe a longing for distant places, representing something unreachable or beyond grasp. However, over time, the idiom has taken on a broader meaning, often expressing a desire for escape or freedom, a yearning to go beyond one's current circumstances.
Embraced by literature, music, and everyday conversation, this idiom continues to resonate with people's innate curiosity and their thirst for new experiences. Its imagery of traveling over hills and journeying far away appeals to the human spirit's love for adventure and discovery.
The idiom "over the hills and far away" is intertwined with several related idioms, namely "take to the hills", "head for the hills", "over the hill", and "old as the hills". These idioms share thematic connections that explore different aspects of the human experience.
"Take to the hills" and "head for the hills" both allude to seeking refuge or safety in elevated locations. They stem from a primal instinct, harkening back to when people would seek higher ground as a means of protection from danger. While "over the hills and far away" represents a longing for adventure and exploration, "take to the hills" and "head for the hills" evoke a sense of urgency and the need for self-preservation.
"Over the hill" is an idiom often used to describe someone who has reached an advanced age and may no longer possess the same vigor or abilities as they once did. As a contrast to the youthful spirit encapsulated in "over the hills and far away", "over the hill" emphasizes the passage of time and the challenges that come with aging.
Finally, "old as the hills" is a phrase used to describe something or someone that is ancient or has been around for a very long time. This idiom encompasses the idea of timelessness and endurance, drawing a parallel to the enduring popularity and cultural significance of "over the hills and far away".
Each of these related idioms provides a unique perspective on the human experience, capturing different facets of our desires, vulnerabilities, and aspirations. While "over the hills and far away" represents the yearning for adventure and exploration, "take to the hills", "head for the hills", "over the hill", and "old as the hills" explore themes of safety, aging, and timelessness.
As the English language continues to evolve, so too will the meanings and usage of these idioms. However, the essence of wanderlust, adventure, and the search for meaning will remain at the core of "over the hills and far away" and its related idioms. They will continue to resonate with people, providing a window into the human experience and our everlasting yearning for something beyond the horizon.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom over the hills and far away can be used in a sentence:
- I dream of traveling over the hills and far away, exploring different cultures and experiencing new adventures.
- After a long and exhausting day, he would often escape reality by immersing himself in books that took him over the hills and far away.
- The children ran excitedly, laughing and shouting, over the hills and far away, as if they had not a care in the world.
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