Biz Idiom of the Day- "in hot water" in hot water Definition: To be in trouble; to be the object of a someone's anger. Example: 1) Jim's friendly relationship with his secretary landed him in hot water with his wife. 2) Because she arrives late for work so frequently, Kim is in hot water with her boss. Etymology: This phrase has been used since the 1700's. 'Hot water' is used for cooking, and if you are 'in hot water', you are in a bad situation. http://www.peakenglish.com/slang/dailybiz.jsp