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Etymology Journal ยท D

Don't get your nose out of joint

Meaning

Do not be offended or resentful because you did not get your way. It refers to someone sulking or acting grumpy after a perceived slight.

Casual, slightly biting

Used in a sentence

  • I know I picked the movie this time, so do not get your nose out of joint.
  • He got his nose out of joint because he wasn't invited to the meeting.
  • Try not to get your nose out of joint over a little constructive criticism.

The backstory

This idiom dates back to the 1800s. It implies that being offended is akin to suffering a physical injury, like a dislocated nose, making you look and act miserable.

Heard in

Nationwide

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