Etymology Journal · W
Who put a bee in your bonnet?
Meaning
- Used when someone seems obsessed with a specific grievance or is suddenly acting agitated about an idea. It implies that their excitement or annoyance is out of proportion to the actual event.
Amused, folksy
Used in a sentence
- Ever since the boss mentioned the new policy, she has had a bee in her bonnet about the vacation days.
- I do not know who put a bee in your bonnet, but please calm down.
- He has got a bee in his bonnet about the local zoning laws.
The backstory
This expression dates back to at least the 16th century in English literature. A bee trapped in a bonnet or hat would cause the wearer to jump around and act frantically.
Heard in
Nationwide
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