Moss Will Grow on You

Green and black text on white background. Background has a green border resembling moss. 

Though the exact origins of the phrase “moss will grow on you” are unclear, it is reminiscent of two well-known idioms: “a rolling stone gathers no moss” and “don’t let the grass grow under your feet”.

The phrase “a rolling stone gathers no moss” has historically carried multiple meanings. Traditionally, it warns that someone who constantly moves or shifts focus may fail to establish roots, responsibilities, or lasting achievements. However, it can also be read more positively as a reminder that someone engaging with diverse activities and constant change will not grow obsolete by staying in one place.

Similarly, “don’t let grass grow under your feet,” originally traced back to print from 1607, usually means that one should act quickly and avoid hesitation. It suggests that those who remain active and responsive will seize opportunities rather than allowing life to pass them by and gathering metaphorical dust, or in this case, grass.

Therefore, the phrase “moss will grow on you” likely implies a similar sentiment that if you stay in one place, you’ll metaphorically “grow moss”. The phrase serves as a humorous warning of the consequences of staying still for too long. To say that moss will grow on someone suggests they have become stagnant and unwilling to change.