English Explanatory Dictionary

Caesar's wife must be above suspicion

English dictionary entry

Meanings

proverb
  1. Those in positions of authority should avoid even the implication of impropriety.

Word forms

Caesar's wife must be above suspicion Caesar's wife must be above reproach Caesar's wife should be above suspicion Caesar's wife should be above reproach

Etymology

In 62 BC Publius Clodius Pulcher sneaked into the festival of the Bona Dea, hosted by Julius Caesar’s wife, Pompeia, with the intention of seducing her, leading to Publius’s arrest and trial. After the trial, Caesar divorced Pompeia, and when questioned said “my wife ought not even to be under suspicion,” as Pompeia was under suspicion of illicit behavior.

Related words

Caesar's wife
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