Deluge of complaints
Meaning
A sudden and overwhelming rush of a very large number of complaints.
Origin
The word "deluge" stems from the Latin "diluvium," meaning "flood," a term deeply rooted in the imagery of a cataclysmic, overwhelming event, most famously the biblical Great Flood. This ancient, vivid metaphor, describing an immense and destructive force of nature, seamlessly migrated into the human experience. When we speak of a "deluge of complaints," we're not merely talking about a few grievances; we're picturing the floodgates opening, an overwhelming torrent of dissatisfaction washing over an individual or organization. The phrase powerfully captures the feeling of being utterly swamped, demonstrating how language can turn an ancient image of natural disaster into a potent description of a chaotic human situation.
Examples
- After the airline announced its new baggage fees, the customer service department received a deluge of complaints.
- The restaurant owner was overwhelmed by a deluge of complaints regarding the slow service during the holiday rush.