bread upon the waters

phrase

: resources risked or charitable deeds performed without expectation of return

Word History

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of bread upon the waters was in 1607

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bread tree

bread upon the waters

bread wheat

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Style

“Bread upon the waters.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bread%20upon%20the%20waters. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: 24 Feb 2026 - Definition revised

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bread upon the waters

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