# walk on eggshells

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/walk-on-eggshells
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be overly careful in dealing with a person or situation because they get angry or offended very easily; to try very hard not to upset someone or something.

## Examples

- I feel like I am walking on eggshells around him.
- She walks on eggshells whenever her sensitive roommate is at home.
- Because my boss is in a bad mood today, everyone in the office is walking on eggshells.
- You have to walk on eggshells when discussing the budget because the director hates any mention of overspending.
- After the two neighbors had a loud argument, the rest of the family walked on eggshells during the entire dinner party.
- Living with a partner whose temper is so unpredictable forces you to walk on eggshells constantly, leaving you exhausted by the effort of avoiding conflict.

## Origin

Attested from the 1800s, the phrase is likely a reference to the physical fragility of eggshells, which shatter when subjected to the weight of a step. It is an image of forced delicacy. The origin is generally attributed to this visual metaphor for cautious movement, rather than a specific historical incident or recorded anecdote. (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.