cry / sob one's eyes / heart out

/kɹˈaɪ sˈɒb wˈɒnz ˈaɪz hˈɑːt ˈaʊt/

/kɹˈaɪ sˈɑːb wˈʌnz ˈaɪz hˈɑːɹt ˈaʊt/

[phrase]

to cry / sob one's eyes / heart out

[PHRASE]

to cry a lot and in length

to [cry|sob] {one's} (eyes|heart) out definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "cry one's heart out" and when to use it?

The phrase "cry one's heart out" can be traced back to at least the 19th century. Its origin lies in the figurative use of the word "heart" to represent the seat of emotions and deep feelings. This expression can be used in personal narratives, literature, movies, or conversations to depict moments of profound emotional vulnerability and catharsis. It can describe someone crying alone in their room, seeking comfort from a trusted friend while pouring out their heart, or experiencing a moment of deep emotional connection.

Examples

1. I remember crying my eyes out, grabbing a bunch of tissues, hyperventilating, and trying to eat a lollipop that the counselor gave me so I would calm down.

2. I cried my eyes out when he fired me.

3. And now the poor thing is crying his heart out.

4. Poor Jane really sobbed her heart out during the funeral service.

Nearby words

cry over spilled milk

cry over spilt milk

cry stinking fish