# through thick and thin

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/through-thick-and-thin
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Through all (especially grim, rough and difficult) conditions; in all weathers.

## Examples

- They have stayed friends through thick and thin.
- My partner supported me through thick and thin while I finished my difficult degree.
- The loyal soldiers remained by their commander's side through thick and thin, even when the battle seemed completely lost.

## Origin

From medieval hunting and travel — 'through thicket and thin wood'; used by Chaucer in The Reeve's Tale (c. 1386). (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.