Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'down in the mouth,' a term denoting sadness or unhappiness, with historical roots in the seventeenth century.
The phrase “down in the mouth” is a colloquial expression used to describe a state of sadness or unhappiness. It metaphorically refers to a mournful facial expression characterized by the downward turning of the corners of the mouth.
The origins of “down in the mouth” can be traced back to the mid-seventeenth century. The phrase is documented in Bishop Joseph Hall’s Cases of Conscience (1649), where it is used to describe a Roman orator’s expression of being deceived: “The Roman Orator was down in the mouth, finding himself thus cheated by the moneychanger.” The expression occasionally appeared with “at” instead of “in,” as noted in Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s Dante and His Circle (1850): “He’ll never more be down-at-mouth.” However, this variation has since fallen into obsolescence.
Semantically, “down in the mouth” conveys more than mere sadness; it suggests a visible manifestation of this emotion through facial expression. The phrase implies a temporary state of disheartenment or disappointment, often in response to specific circumstances. Its usage is largely informal, yet it effectively communicates a universally recognizable human emotion.
In contemporary culture, “down in the mouth” is often employed in both literary and everyday contexts to express a person’s emotional downturn. Its vivid imagery makes it a popular choice in literature and dialogue to convey characters’ emotional states. While less common in formal writing, it remains a staple in spoken English and informal communication.
In professional settings, “down in the mouth” might be used metaphorically to describe a team’s morale after a setback. Socially, it is often used to express empathy or understanding of someone’s temporary emotional state. In literary contexts, it serves as a descriptive tool to vividly depict a character’s emotional landscape.
The phrase “down in the mouth” retains moderate relevance in contemporary language, particularly in informal contexts. Its vivid imagery ensures its continued use, although its frequency may be diminishing in favor of more modern expressions. Durability rating: ★★★☆☆
“The Roman Orator was down in the mouth, finding himself thus cheated by the moneychanger.” - Joseph Hall, Cases of Conscience (1649)
“He’ll never more be down-at-mouth.” - Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Dante and His Circle (1850)