have a cow

/hav ɐ kˈaʊ/

/hæv ɐ kˈaʊ/

[phrase]

to have a cow

[PHRASE]

to be really stressed, angry, or upset about something that has happened or is going to happen

What is the origin of the idiom "have a cow" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the phrase "have a cow" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. This expression is commonly used in casual conversations, humorous exchanges, and popular culture references. It can be used to highlight moments of frustration, surprise, or outrage, often in a playful or humorous manner.

Examples

1. Your sister had a cow for the last 5 hours.

2. You have a cow at the beginning of the day, and you have steaks the end of the day.

3. Ordering a salad and getting an intact head of lettuce smothered in ranch is like ordering a steak and having a cow wander over to your table with A.1.

4. Don't have a cow, man!

Nearby words

have a bun in the oven

have a dog in the fight

have a dog in the race

have a fit

have a go

have a good pair of lungs