salt of the earth
Meaning
A very good, honest, dependable person; someone unpretentious and kind.
Origin
From the Bible (Matthew 5:13): “You are the salt of the earth.” Salt was precious and associated with preserving and improving flavor, metaphorically meaning people who bring moral value to society.
Notes
A strong compliment for someone humble, honest, and reliable. Slightly formal/old-fashioned; often used admiringly, not usually sarcastic.
Examples
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My grandfather is the salt of the earth—he’s humble, hardworking, and always willing to help.
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The volunteers who showed up in the rain were the salt of the earth.
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Everyone trusts Maria because she’s the salt of the earth and never puts on airs.
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He may not have much money, but he’s the salt of the earth and treats people kindly.
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Our neighbors are the salt of the earth; they brought us food when we moved in.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with “the” (the salt of the earth). Often as a noun phrase after “be”: “She’s the salt of the earth.” Less common without “the.”
Synonyms
- good person
- upstanding person
- pillar of the community
- a good egg
Antonyms
- bad egg
- lowlife
- scoundrel