The origin of the phrase "hissy fit" is believed to be rooted in American slang, particularly in the Southern United States. It emerged in the early 20th century and gained popularity in the mid-20th century. It can be used to depict someone throwing a tantrum, shouting, crying, or engaging in other attention-seeking behavior. The term is frequently employed in a somewhat lighthearted or humorous manner, often with a touch of criticism or mockery, to highlight the excessive and irrational nature of the emotional outburst.

What is the origin of the idiom "hissy fit" and when to use it?

hissy fit

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While the exact origin of the idiom "one's blood is up" is challenging to pinpoint with precision, it can be traced back to at least the 16th century in English literature. The phrase likely emerged from the belief in the Humoral theory, which associated different temperaments and behaviors with the balance or imbalance of bodily fluids, including blood. The phrase is often used to depict individuals who are visibly agitated, passionate, or ready to confront a challenge. It can be applied to various scenarios, such as heated arguments, intense competitions, or moments of deep personal conviction.

What is the origin of the idiom "one's blood is up" and when to use it?

{one's} blood [is] up

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The origin of the phrase "on the rag" is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century as a derogatory slang term. The phrase likely originated from the association of menstruation with the use of cloth menstrual pads or rags before the widespread availability of modern sanitary products. It is considered a crude and disrespectful term that objectifies and diminishes women based on their menstrual cycle. The phrase is widely recognized as offensive and has no place in respectful or inclusive language. It is important to promote understanding, empathy, and respect when discussing topics related to menstruation.

What is the origin of the idiom "on the rag" and when to use it?

on the rag

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The exact origin of the phrase "in high dudgeon" is uncertain, but it can be traced back to at least the 17th century in English literature. The term "dudgeon" originally referred to the hilt or handle of a dagger or short weapon. It is used to describe individuals who are openly confrontational, defensive, or unwilling to back down from a perceived injustice. The phrase can be found in works of literature, historical accounts, or in more formal discussions of heightened emotional states.

What is the origin of the idiom "in high dudgeon" and when to use it?

in high dudgeon

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The origin of the phrase "in a huff" can be traced back to the early 18th century. The word "huff" in this context refers to a state of anger, offense, or annoyance. It is believed to have originated from the verb "huff," which means to blow or puff out breath forcefully, often as a sign of displeasure. The phrase is often used to describe individuals who feel slighted, dismissed, or frustrated and respond by storming off or leaving with an air of indignation. It can be used in various scenarios, such as during arguments, disagreements, or when someone feels their opinions or ideas have been disregarded.

What is the origin of the idiom "in a huff" and when to use it?

in a huff

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The exact origin of the phrase "hopping mad" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century. The word "hopping" in this context suggests a sense of energy, liveliness, or agitation. It is used metaphorically to describe the intense state of anger or fury that causes someone to feel restless or as if they were physically hopping. It can be used in various scenarios, such as personal conflicts, heated arguments, or when someone feels their boundaries have been crossed.

What is the origin of the idiom "hopping mad" and when to use it?

hopping mad

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The origin of the phrase "bent out of shape" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century. The phrase uses the metaphor of physical distortion or contortion to describe someone's emotional state. It can be used in various scenarios, such as when someone gets upset over a small mistake or inconvenience, or when they become excessively angry or annoyed over a trivial matter.

What is the origin of the idiom "bent out of shape" and when to use it?

bent out of shape

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The phrase "up in arms about something" has its origins in medieval times and dates back to the 14th century. It was initially used in a literal sense to describe the act of being armed with weapons in preparation for battle or conflict. Over time, the phrase evolved to also carry a figurative meaning, referring to a state of anger, outrage, or protest. It is commonly employed in discussions related to politics, social matters, or public controversies that evoke passionate emotions.

What is the origin of the idiom "up in arms about something" and when to use it?

to [be] up in arms (about|over|after) {sth}

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The idiom "set one's teeth on edge" has its origins in biblical scripture, specifically in the Book of Jeremiah in the Old Testament. This idiom is used to convey a visceral reaction, emphasizing the intensity of the negative sensation. It can be used in various scenarios, such as describing the effect of screeching brakes, nails on a chalkboard, certain types of music, extremely bitter or sour flavors, or even certain textures that cause discomfort.

What is the origin of the idiom "set one's teeth on edge" and when to use it?

to [set] {one's} teeth on edge

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The phrase "make one's blood boil" has its origins in the ancient belief that the body's humors, including the blood, were responsible for emotions and temperaments. This concept dates back to ancient Greek and Roman medicine, which posited that an imbalance in the humors could lead to various emotional states. It can be used in conversations, debates, or written pieces to emphasize the profound emotional impact of a particular event or circumstance.

What is the origin of the idiom "make one's blood boil" and when to use it?

to [make] {one's} blood boil

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The phrase "go ape" originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, specifically in the 1950s. It is believed to have emerged from the slang term "ape" or "go ape" used by jazz musicians to describe a wild, energetic, and uninhibited performance. This expression is often heard in casual conversations, discussions about personal experiences, or in fictional narratives to portray characters experiencing heightened anger or exhibiting aggressive behavior.

What is the origin of the idiom "go ape" and when to use it?

to [go] ape

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The origin of the phrase "chill pill" can be traced back to the counterculture and slang of the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, there was a rise in the use of recreational drugs, including those believed to have a calming or sedative effect. It is often employed in interpersonal interactions, such as during arguments, conflicts, or moments of tension, when one person perceives another as being overly worked up or agitated. The phrase can be used humorously or playfully to gently suggest that the person should take a step back, regain composure, and approach the situation with a more relaxed mindset.

What is the origin of the idiom "chill pill" and when to use it?

chill pill

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The exact origin of the phrase "drive someone up the wall" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the early to mid-20th century. It is commonly employed in conversations, anecdotes, or storytelling to describe persistent behaviors, annoying habits, or aggravating circumstances that elicit strong negative emotions. The phrase can be used in personal experiences, workplace dynamics, relationships, or any situation where someone's actions or situations become a constant source of annoyance.

What is the origin of the idiom "drive someone up the wall" and when to use it?

to [drive] {sb} up the wall

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The exact origin of the phrase "keep your hair on" is unclear, but it likely emerged in British English in the early to mid-20th century as a colloquial expression. The phrase is believed to have originated from the idea of someone becoming so agitated or upset that their hair appears disheveled or stands on end. It is often employed in informal conversations, friendly exchanges, or situations where individuals need a gentle reminder to stay calm and composed. This expression can be used in various settings, such as during disagreements, moments of frustration, or when someone is overreacting to a minor issue. It is commonly used among friends, colleagues, or family members to diffuse tension, inject humor, and encourage emotional restraint.

What is the origin of the idiom "keep your hair on" and when to use it?

keep your hair on

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The exact origin of the phrase "hit a nerve" can be traced back to the medical understanding of how physical stimulation of a nerve can elicit a strong, often painful, response. It is also used in social or political discussions when a statement or action deeply affects individuals or groups involved. In these situations, the phrase highlights that a particular subject has struck a sensitive spot, revealing underlying tensions, unresolved issues, or deeply held beliefs.

What is the origin of the idiom "hit a nerve" and when to use it?

to [hit|strike|touch] a (raw|sensitive|) nerve

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The precise origin of the idiom "get a rise out of someone" is uncertain, as idioms often evolve organically over time. It is believed to have originated in the United States, possibly in the early to mid-20th century. This expression is commonly used in conversations, anecdotes, or stories when describing instances where someone deliberately tries to push someone's buttons or provoke a noticeable reaction, such as teasing, taunting, or engaging in provocative behavior or remarks.

What is the origin of the idiom "get a rise out of someone" and when to use it?

to [get] a rise out of {sb}

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Dive into English idioms regarding anger, like "keep your hair on" and "get a rise out of".

English Idioms for "Anger"