walk on eggshells
verbUK /ˌwɔːk ɒn ˈɛɡʃɛlz/ · US /ˌwɔk ɑn ˈɛɡʃɛlz/
Etymology 1800s usage, probably from the imagery that eggshells are easily broken when stepped upon.
1
Idiomatic 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.
2
Idiomatic To be careful and sensitive, in handling very sensitive matters.
- Related terms
- on thin ice, pussyfoot, tiptoe through a minefield, tread lightly