PhrasesHub

Coat of many colours

    Definitions

      • being unique
        Describing someone who is special or stands out from the crowd due to their diverse or varied qualities or abilities. Can also refer to something that is one-of-a-kind or distinctive.

      • having a diverse background or experiences
        Referring to someone who has a wide range of knowledge, skills, or experiences, making them well-rounded or versatile. Can also describe a place or organization that values diversity and inclusivity.

      • showing one's true colors
        Indicating that someone is revealing their true intentions, beliefs, or character. Can be used in a positive sense to describe someone who is genuine and authentic, or in a negative sense to describe someone who is deceitful or manipulative.

      • being a symbol of hope or resilience
        Referring to the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors, this idiom can represent hope, perseverance, or resilience in the face of adversity. It can also symbolize the idea of making something beautiful out of seemingly disparate or imperfect parts.

    Examples of Coat of many colours


      Conclusion

      The idiom "coat of many colours" has multiple meanings, all centered around the idea of uniqueness and diversity. It can describe someone who is special or stands out, someone who has a diverse background or experiences, or someone who is revealing their true colors. It can also represent hope and resilience in the face of challenges, or the idea of making something beautiful out of seemingly disparate parts.

      Origin of "Coat of many colours"

      The origin of the idiom "coat of many colours" can be traced back to the biblical story of Joseph in the Book of Genesis. Joseph was given a coat of many colors by his father Jacob, which was seen as a symbol of his father's love and favoritism towards him. This coat also made his brothers jealous and sparked a chain of events that led to Joseph being sold into slavery.

      Over time, this story became associated with the idea of uniqueness and diversity, as the coat was seen as a representation of Joseph's special qualities and abilities. It also became a symbol of hope and resilience, as Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt was believed to be a result of his diverse experiences and ability to make the best of a difficult situation.

      Today, the idiom "coat of many colours" is widely used in literature, music, and everyday language to describe someone who is unique, diverse, or resilient. It has become a powerful metaphor for celebrating individuality and embracing diversity.