still waters run deep

still waters run deep

Meaning | Synonyms

• to have passion or furore underneath a calm expression
• a placid exterior covering a something that can be dangerous
• external calm does not mean that the situation is safe since there may be a danger under the water
• a quiet person may have deep feelings or an interesting personality when one gets to know them

Example Sentences

1. Though he rarely speaks in class, still waters run deep.
2. She did not talk to me that day and I knew that something is wrong, still waters run deep.
3. He didn't express his opinion in the meeting but still waters run deep.
4. You're usually shy so I did not expect you had so much to say. I guess still waters run deep.
5. You should not talk with that gang, they're too quiet and still waters can run deep.

Origin

The earliest mention of the proverb come out in Classical times in the form “altissima quaeque flumina minimo sono labi” that means, the deepest rivers flow with least sound in a history of Alexander the Great by Quintus Rufus Curtius. It is there claimed as being of Bactrian origin. The phrase originates in English in the 14^th century but could be older since it has been taken from a natural phenomenon.

The seashore provides a sense of calm and serenity to people but often when one gets too close the actual waves can be seen. This is seen in almost all water bodies where external calm cannot be relied upon, especially in waters that are still. The lakes and ponds that have still water usually run quite deep and anyone mistaking its external calm as inviting could get into a lot of trouble, very quickly.