above water

phrase

: out of difficulty

Examples of above water in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The president left office above water on the economy, with 48% approving and 41% disapproving — high numbers for a president whose last year was overwhelmed by the Covid pandemic. — Steve Liesman, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026 Joseph Joliet says since the COVID-19 shutdown, it's been hard to keep their head above water. — Veronica Ortega, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026 Yes, the Royals have been above water through May in two of Matt Quatraro’s first four seasons as manager. — Kansas City Star, 4 Oct. 2026 This year’s Emmy Awards are about regular people trying to keep their heads above water. — Daniel Wine, CNN Money, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for above water

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of above water was in 1604

Rhymes for above water

See All Rhymes for above water

Browse Nearby Words

above the law
above water
ab ovo
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Above water.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/above%20water. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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