Sword of Damocles
A sword of Damocles is a serious danger that hangs over someone and may strike at any time; it comes from the story of Damocles, told in Cicero’s Tusculan Disputations, where a splendid feast becomes a lesson about fear.
Where it comes from
The sword above the feast
The story appears in Cicero’s Tusculan Disputations. Damocles admires the wealth and power of Dionysius, who lets him experience the ruler’s life along with its dangers.
Dionysius seats Damocles at a rich feast, but has a sharp sword suspended above his head by a single horsehair.
In Tusculan Disputations by Cicero
A threat that spoils happiness
Today the phrase means a looming danger that makes comfort or success feel unsafe. It often describes the threat of dismissal, punishment, debt, or sudden loss.
In Tusculan Disputations, Damocles can no longer enjoy the food or luxury once he notices the sword. He asks to leave, having learned what constant fear does to happiness.
In Tusculan Disputations by Cicero
How to use Sword of Damocles
- Name the serious threat hanging over the person.
- Use the phrase when danger makes present comfort feel unsafe.
- Avoid using it for a small everyday worry.
Does a sword of Damocles mean disaster is certain?
No, it means disaster is possible and constantly threatening, not certain. The force of the image lies in waiting under a danger that could strike at any moment, whether or not it actually does.
How is a sword of Damocles different from an Achilles’ heel?
A sword of Damocles is a looming threat, while an Achilles’ heel is a weakness that could lead to defeat. A threatened lawsuit might hang over a successful business like a sword of Damocles; poor security might be its Achilles’ heel.
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