OPENED FLOODGATES Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "opened floodgates" commonly refers to a sudden, uncontrollable release or influx of something, often used metaphorically in a figurative sense. The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the opening mechanism used in a dam or sluice gate, which controls the flow of water in a river or canal. When the floodgates are opened, a large amount of water is released, overwhelming the natural flow and causing a surge or deluge.
In a broader sense, "opened floodgates" signifies an action or event that triggers a rapid and unrestricted inflow or outpouring of people, ideas, emotions, or events. It connotes a substantial and sudden surge, leading to an overwhelming and uncontainable situation. This phenomenon may manifest in various contexts, such as social or technological advancements, legal systems, cultural changes, or public opinions. For instance, the advent of the internet opened floodgates of information, allowing free access to an unprecedented range of knowledge. In the legal realm, a landmark court ruling may be perceived as opening the floodgates to numerous lawsuits or claims.
Overall, when we refer to "opened floodgates," we imply a forceful and sudden release that leads to an overwhelming influx or outpouring, disrupting the existing order and inundating the regular flow of events or ideas.
Common Misspellings for OPENED FLOODGATES
- open floodgates
- opend floodgates
- ipened floodgates
- kpened floodgates
- lpened floodgates
- ppened floodgates
- 0pened floodgates
- 9pened floodgates
- ooened floodgates
- olened floodgates
- o-ened floodgates
- o0ened floodgates
- opwned floodgates
- opsned floodgates
- opdned floodgates
- oprned floodgates
- op4ned floodgates
- op3ned floodgates
- opebed floodgates
- opemed floodgates
Etymology of OPENED FLOODGATES
The phrase "opened floodgates" is a figurative expression that originated from the literal act of opening floodgates or sluice gates to release water from a dam or canal. The term "floodgates" refers to the gates or barriers that control the flow of water.
In its figurative sense, "opened floodgates" refers to a situation where restrictions or controls have been removed, allowing a sudden or overwhelming surge of something. This can apply to an influx of people, ideas, information, emotions, or any other kind of overwhelming release or influx.
The etymology of the term lies in its literal meaning. The word "floodgate" is derived from the Old English words "flōd" (meaning "flood") and "gæt" (meaning "gate").
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