come hell or high water

In reference to the dangers of hell and stormy seas or floods.

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come hell or high water

1. (slang, idiomatic, somewhat vulgar) Regardless of the hardships; no matter what difficulties may arise.

   The pioneers were determined to build a community in the wilderness come hell or high water.

   • 1932, Delos W. Lovelace, King Kong, published 1965, page 1:

     Her crew knew that deep in her heart beat engines fit and able to push her blunt old nose ahead at a sweet fourteen knots, come Hell or high water.

• Only used in the subjunctive mood (in anticipation of some intended action).

• come what may
• rain or shine
• no matter what

• Lord willing and the creek don't rise