Water off a duck's back

Meaning

Let criticism or trouble slide without effect.

Usage

Encourages resilience to negativity.

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.

Water rolls off ducks' feathers without wetting the bird.

Used in English folk expression since the 19th century.