What is the origin of make a big splash idiom?

The idiom "make a big splash" likely originated from the action of making a big splash in the water by diving or jumping strongly. The visual impact and audible sound created by the splash can be associated with the idea of creating a significant impact or impression.

Another possibility is that the idiom may have roots in the context of diving or water sports, where a successful dive or jump that creates a large splash is considered impressive and often used as a metric for judging the performance of an athlete.

The phrase eventually expanded beyond its literal meaning and became metaphorical, used to describe any situation where someone or something makes a grand entrance, gains sudden fame or success, or causes a significant impact or impression in a particular field or situation.