phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

Touching the void

Posted by Shae on June 29, 2005

In Reply to: Touching the void posted by ESC on June 29, 2005

: : What does "touching the void" mean - esp. when related to mountaineering?

: Well, I couldn't find a meaning. But I am guessing that it means a near-death experience. The "void" meaning whatever is waiting for us. The great unknown.

: Anyone have the answer to this one?

My understanding is that it means to achieve the unachievable, experience the impossible. Something along those lines. I think that, in this usage, 'The void' is a vacuum, such as Outer Space, which cannot be touched, but to actually do so surpasses normal human experience.

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