Literal Translation
A giant with feet of clay
Actual Meaning
Something that is only strong in appearance
Etymology
Clay is neither hard nor resistant. As for the Greek word kolossos, it referred to a statue in human form. Later, in reference to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Latin word colossus came to refer to a huge statue and then an athlete. The expression “colossus with feet of clay” dates back to the Bible. The prophet Daniel interpreted the dreams of King Nebuchadnezzar, including one in which a huge statue appeared, with a head of gold, arms and chest of silver, belly and thighs of bronze, legs of iron and feet of clay. If a stone broke one of the statue’s feet, it would collapse. By attacking its fragile base, it could be destroyed. This expression therefore encourages us to be wary of appearances and to be aware that there is often a weak and vulnerable point.