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Region: US | Usage example: We stayed inside because it was raining harder than a cow wetting on a flat rock.

It's raining harder than a cow wetting on a flat rock

Meaning

It is pouring rain.

Usage

Describes torrential downpours.

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.

Rustic American expression drawing on the slow process of a cow urinating on a rock.

Heard in Southern US speech in the early 20th century.

Related Idioms

Between a rock and a hard place

Stuck between two negative options.

Bite off more than you can chew

Take on more responsibilities than you can handle.

If it's not broke, don't fix it

Avoid altering something that works fine.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.