In high dudgeon

Meaning

"In high dudgeon" is an idiom that means to be extremely angry or upset, usually over a perceived injustice or slight. It is often used to describe someone who is indignant and determined to take action to correct the situation. The phrase comes from the 17th century, when "dudgeon" referred to a long-handled whip that was used to discipline children or animals.

Usage

• After the customer's complaint was ignored by the manager, she stormed out of the store in high dudgeon.
• The team lost the game in an upsetting fashion, leaving the fans in high dudgeon.
• The politician gave a passionate speech in high dudgeon, attacking his opponent for their policies.
• When he found out that his favorite restaurant had closed down without warning, he was in high dudgeon and refused to eat anywhere else.
• The workers went on strike in high dudgeon, demanding better pay and working conditions.

Roots and History

The phrase "in high dudgeon" has its roots in the 17th century, when "dudgeon" was used as a verb to describe a long-handled whip that was used to discipline children or animals. The phrase "in high dudgeon" likely emerged during this time and may have been influenced by the idea of someone being so angry that they would use a physical tool to express their frustration. Over time, the phrase has come to be used more metaphorically to describe someone who is extremely angry or upset.

Synonyms in English

• Fuming
• Furious
• Enraged
• Livid
• Incensed

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "Enojado" (enjoyed)
• French: "Furious"
• German: "Krankgeistig" (sick-minded)
• Italian: "Furioso" (furious)
• Chinese: "革命性" (revolutionary)

Similar Idioms

• at daggers drawn

• in the heat of the moment

• in the can