Idiom idiom
those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones
Meaning
People who are morally questionable shouldn't criticize others
Examples
“Those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.”
“You shouldn't criticize her for being late when you are never on time; remember, those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.”
“Before the politician attacked his opponent's financial history, his advisors warned him that those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones, especially given his own recent scandals.”
Origin
first recorded 14th c.
first recorded 14th c.
The idea appears in Chaucer's Troilus and Criseyde (c. 1380); George Herbert's 1651 form: 'Whose house is of glass, must not throw stones at another.'
Last updated June 7, 2026