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high and dry
01
(of a person) placed in a difficult situation with little or no resources or help
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "high and dry" and when to use it?
The idiom "high and dry" originally referred to ships being stranded or left aground on land when the tide recedes, leaving them in a vulnerable and exposed position. Figuratively, it is used to describe a situation where someone is left without help, support, or assistance, often in a difficult or unfavorable circumstance.
Examples
When the funding disappeared, the small charity was left high and dry.
