Grasping at straws

Meaning

Trying desperate measures with little chance of success.

Usage

Used to criticize futility.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Imagery of drowning people grabbing floating straws.

Used since the early modern era.