Nose out of joint meaning

Feeling slighted or offended, typically because of a disappointment or a perceived slight, resulting in someone's nose being out of joint.


Nose out of joint definitions

Word backwards eson tuo fo tnioj
Part of speech This phrase is an idiom and does not have a specific part of speech. However, "nose" is a noun and "out of joint" in this context functions as an adjective phrase modifying "nose."
Syllabic division nose out of joint syllable separation: nose/ out/ of/ joint
Plural noses out of joint
Total letters 14
Vogais (4) o,e,u,i
Consonants (5) n,s,t,f,j

Nose Out of Joint: Understanding the Phrase's Meaning

When someone says that their nose is "out of joint," they are expressing feelings of annoyance, offense, or irritation. This phrase is often used to describe a situation in which someone has been slighted, disrespected, or thwarted in some way, leading to a sense of wounded pride or dignity.

Origins of the Phrase

The origins of the phrase "nose out of joint" can be traced back to the 16th century, when it was used in the context of actual physical injury. In those days, if someone dislocated their nose, it would cause not only physical pain but also considerable embarrassment and social awkwardness. This discomfort and sense of being "put out" led to the phrase being used metaphorically to describe feelings of upset or offense.

Modern Usage

In modern times, the phrase "nose out of joint" is used to convey a sense of wounded pride or irritation at being snubbed or overlooked. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from personal relationships to professional settings, to describe feelings of being slighted or disrespected. When someone feels that their nose is out of joint, they may experience a combination of hurt, anger, and frustration.

Handling Feelings of Discord

When someone expresses that their nose is out of joint, it is important to acknowledge their feelings and seek to understand the root cause of their distress. By listening empathetically and showing genuine concern, it is possible to repair any damage to the relationship and rebuild trust and respect.

Overall, the phrase "nose out of joint" captures the complex mix of emotions that can arise when someone feels slighted or disrespected. By recognizing and addressing these feelings with sensitivity and empathy, it is possible to restore harmony and mutual understanding in relationships and interactions.


Nose out of joint Examples

  1. She got her nose out of joint when she found out she wasn't invited to the party.
  2. His nose was out of joint after losing the game to his younger brother.
  3. I could tell his nose was out of joint when he didn't get the promotion.
  4. Don't get your nose out of joint just because I disagreed with you.
  5. Her nose was definitely out of joint when she saw her ex with someone new.
  6. I could sense his nose was out of joint when I arrived late to the meeting.
  7. She always gets her nose out of joint when things don't go her way.
  8. His nose was out of joint when he realized he had missed the deadline.
  9. I don't want to get my nose out of joint over something so trivial.
  10. Try not to get your nose out of joint if things don't go as planned.


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  • Updated 16/04/2024 - 12:56:34