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Hissy fit
01
an outburst of anger or frustration, often characterized by uncontrollable emotional and irrational behavior
Dialect
American
American
Humorous
Idiom
Informal
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Abstract
Composition
Compound
Countable
Plural form
hissy fits
What is the origin of the idiom "hissy fit" and when to use it?
The origin of the phrase "hissy fit" is believed to be rooted in American slang, particularly in the Southern United States. It emerged in the early 20th century and gained popularity in the mid-20th century. It can be used to depict someone throwing a tantrum, shouting, crying, or engaging in other attention-seeking behavior. The term is frequently employed in a somewhat lighthearted or humorous manner, often with a touch of criticism or mockery, to highlight the excessive and irrational nature of the emotional outburst.
Examples
He threw a hissy fit when the waiter brought the wrong order.
