hell or high water

phrase

: difficulties of whatever kind or size
will stand by her convictions come hell or high water

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hell or high water was in 1868

Rhymes for hell or high water

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Browse Nearby Words

hell on wheels
hell or high water
hell-raiser
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Cite this Entry

“Hell or high water.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hell%20or%20high%20water. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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