Meaning
To steer clear or avoid, keeping distance.
Origin
From 17th-century seafaring, tied to ships; 'wide berth' meant room, slang by 1650s for avoid. A 1680s log uses it for a reef dodge.
Variants
- Wide berth
Usage Examples
- Give him a wide berth; he's trouble.
- She gave the mess a wide berth; smart.
- Wide berth to that spot; stay safe.