water off a duck's back
water
wɔ:tə
vawtē
off
ɒf
of
a
ə
ē
duck's
dʌks
daks
back
bæk
bāk

Definition & Meaning of "water off a duck's back"in English

water off a duck's back
01

(of criticisms or warnings) failing to have any effect on a person 

Idiom
Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "water off a duck's back" and when to use it?

The idiom "water off a duck's back" finds its origins in the observation that water rolls off a duck's waterproof feathers without penetrating or affecting the bird. This metaphorical expression conveys the idea that criticism, insults, or negative comments have no impact or effect on a person, similar to how water doesn't stick to a duck's feathers. It is used to suggest resilience and encourage the ability to remain unaffected by adverse situations or remarks.

Examples
The criticism was water off a duck's back to him. 
1.1

without having any noticeable effect 

Examples
The bullets had no effect on the steel door. They fell away like water off a duck's back. 
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