Whiteisms
The Archive

Etymology Journal ยท D

Don't get your knickers in a twist

Meaning

Do not overreact to a situation or become unnecessarily anxious. It is a way to tell someone to calm down when they are getting worked up over nothing.

Sassy, dismissive

Used in a sentence

  • Do not get your knickers in a twist, we will be there on time.
  • I just asked a simple question, so do not get your knickers in a twist.
  • There is no need to get your knickers in a twist over such a small mistake.

The backstory

This phrase originates in British English and migrated across the pond. It humorously describes the physical discomfort of having one's underwear bunched up, serving as a metaphor for mental distress.

Heard in

Midwest, Nationwide

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