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a constant and looming threat of harm or disaster, especially one that could strike at any moment, often hanging over someone in a position of power or responsibility
IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "sword of damocles" and when to use it?
The idiom "sword of Damocles" comes from an ancient story told by the Roman philosopher Cicero about Damocles, a courtier who envied the wealth and power of King Dionysius II of Syracuse in the 4th century BCE. To teach him a lesson, Dionysius let Damocles enjoy the king's luxuries for a day, but hung a sharp sword above his head by a single horsehair, showing that great power comes with constant danger. Today, the phrase is used to describe any situation where someone lives under an ever‑present threat despite outward appearances of success or security.
