Get Someone’s Back Up, To
Definition: To make someone angry. The expression alludes to the behavior of the domestic cat, which arches its back when it is attacked by a dog or is otherwise annoyed. This term began in the early eighteenth century as “to put or set up the back.” By 1864 it was, “He goes his own way . . . if you put his back up” (Sunday Magazine). See also “get someone’s dander up.”
Synonyms:
- Annoy
- Irk
- Rile up
- Aggravate
- Infuriate
Antonyms:
- Calm down
- Soothe
- Appease
- Pacify
Humor-Filled Quotes:
- “Anger is a condition in which the tongue works faster than the mind.” — Anonymous
- “Never go to bed angry. Stay up and plot your revenge.” — Dr. Phyllis Diller
Proverbs Related:
- “A cat has nine lives” – This doesn’t mean it loves getting angry, though.
- “Let sleeping dogs lie” – It’s just as important to let annoyed cats chill.
Suggested Literature:
- Garfield by Jim Davis - The quintessential grumpy cat with a knack for getting his back up.
- The Tale of Tom Kitten by Beatrix Potter - Tom might not always arch his back, but there’s enough cat-related trouble.
Suggested Movies:
- Puss in Boots - Watch how our favorite swashbuckling feline gets his back up in style!
- Cats – More feline drama than you can shake a whisker at.
Suggested Songs:
- “What’s New Pussycat?” by Tom Jones - Imagine how perplexed a cat would be hearing this!
- “Black Cat” by Janet Jackson – A song with a fierce feline tone.
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### What does "get someone's back up" mean?
- [x] To make someone angry
- [ ] To make someone laugh
- [ ] To surprise someone
- [ ] To scare someone
> **Explanation:** "Get someone's back up" means to make someone angry, just like a cat arches its back when annoyed.
### Which of these could get someone's back up?
- [x] Telling them they're wrong
- [ ] Giving compliments
- [ ] Offering free pizza
- [ ] Singing lullabies
> **Explanation:** Criticism or confrontation can get someone's back up, unlike giving compliments or free pizza!
### True or False: The phrase 'get someone’s back up' originates from the behavior of dogs.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. It originates from the behavior of cats arching their backs when provoked or threatened.
Farewell Thought: Remember, every now and then we might get our backs up, but just as easily, we should learn to let it go and find our purr-fect peace. 🌟
