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The Meaning of “Under The Weather” 

What is the meaning of being “Under the Weather?”  The phrase means that someone feels sick or sad.

For example:

I am not going to work because I feel under the weather.

Here are a few phrases with similar meanings: sick as a dog, in a bad way, not feeling so hot.

Origins

This phrase originated in the sailing community. When a sailor felt seasick, he was sent below deck to get away from the bad weather. So, “under the weather” originally meant seasick. Some sources report that the original phrase was “under the weather bow.” The weather bow is the side of the boat with the worst weather.

This phrase first appeared in print in 1835 in the Jeffersonville Daily Evening News.

Example Sentences

Shortly after eating the expired food, she began to feel under the weather.

I want to go to graduation, but I’ll stay home since I feel under the weather.

Now that you understand the meaning of the phrase “Under the Weather,” you can use it correctly in your writing and speaking.

Related: Now learn the meaning of “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” and other common expressions! 


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By Patrice Riley

Patrice Riley is the pen name of Dr. Deborah Riley. She is a retired English professor that enjoys grammar, literature, and all things writing.

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