Definition & Meaning of "{one's} bark [is] worse than {one's} bite"

What is the origin of the idiom "one's bark is worse than one's bite" and when to use it?

The phrase "one's bark is worse than one's bite" is an idiom that means someone's aggressive or threatening behavior or words are more intimidating than their actual actions. The idiom implies that the person's bark, referring to their vocal or verbal expressions, is more fearsome than their bite, which signifies their actual physical or impactful actions. This expression is commonly used to caution others not to be overly intimidated by someone's tough talk or bluster, as their actions may not match their aggressive rhetoric.