Everything under the sun
Meaning
This phrase refers to absolutely everything that exists or is imaginable in the world.
Origin
This phrase finds its deep roots in ancient wisdom, particularly within the biblical book of Ecclesiastes. Authored by "the Preacher," this profound, philosophical text repeatedly employs the phrase "under the sun" to encompass all human endeavors, observations, and experiences within the earthly realm. It paints a vivid picture of the sheer vastness and often cyclical nature of life's pursuits, framing them all within the confines of what can be found or done in this world. This stark, contemplative context imbued the phrase with its enduring power, making it a timeless descriptor for the sheer totality of existence itself.
Examples
- The vast encyclopedia promised to cover everything under the sun, from ancient history to modern physics.
- After years of travel, she felt she had experienced everything under the sun, from desert treks to bustling city life.