What is the origin of the idiom "cry a river" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase "cry a river" can be traced back to the mid-20th century. It gained popularity through the 1953 song "Cry Me a River," written by Arthur Hamilton and famously performed by artists such as Julie London and Ella Fitzgerald. It is commonly employed in informal conversations, particularly during discussions about relationships, personal dramas, or instances where someone is perceived as being overly emotional.