The phrase "come adrift" means "to become detached or separated." It is often used in nautical contexts, where a rope, anchor, or other equipment might come adrift from its moorings. The spelling of "adrift" is pronounced as /əˈdrɪft/, with the accent on the second syllable. The "a" in "adrift" is pronounced as a short vowel sound, and the "i" is pronounced as a schwa sound, giving the word a gentle, drifting quality that fits its meaning.
The phrase "come adrift" refers to a situation wherein an object or concept becomes loose, disconnected, or separated from its intended position or arrangement. It implies a sense of displacement or disorder, often describing something that was once secure but has now become detached or disordered.
In a literal sense, "come adrift" can describe objects or structures that have become loose or disconnected from their original position. For example, a boat anchor or mooring may come adrift if it is no longer securely attached, causing the boat to drift away. Similarly, a piece of furniture may come adrift if its joints or screws become loose, resulting in an unstable or disassembled state.
Metaphorically, "come adrift" signifies a departure from a planned or expected course. It can refer to a person, idea, or situation that has lost its original purpose or direction. For instance, if someone's career plans come adrift, it means they have deviated from their intended trajectory, or if a relationship comes adrift, it suggests a disconnection or breakdown in the partnership.
Overall, "come adrift" portrays a state of disconnection, disarray, or divergence. It implies a departure from a desired or intended state, whether through physical detachment or metaphorical deviation. This phrase conveys the idea of something or someone being adrift or out of place, highlighting a lack of stability, coherence, or alignment with intended goals or arrangements.
The phrase "come adrift" is derived from two separate words: "come" and "adrift".
1. "Come" is derived from the Old English word "cuman", which means "to move towards, approach". It has remained relatively unchanged in its meaning over time.
2. "Adrift" originated from the Middle English word "adrive", which means "driven away, carried away" or "floating at random". The term is composed of the prefix "a-" (meaning "away") and the verb "drive". Over time, "adrive" evolved into "adrift", which suggests something that is not in its proper place, unfixed, or not securely attached.
When put together, the phrase "come adrift" refers to something that has become detached, loose, or not in its intended or secure position.