"Under the Weather"
The phrase “under the weather” is believed to have nautical origins, dating back to the 19th century. Sailors would use the term when they were feeling unwell, particularly during rough seas. In those times, a sailor who was sick would be sent below deck, where the motion of the boat was less pronounced. Since the weather, especially storms, was thought to cause seasickness, "under the weather" essentially meant to be affected by bad conditions, often implying illness or feeling unwell. It has since evolved to refer to someone feeling physically ill, fatigued, or even emotionally down.
The phrase “under the weather” has been used in a variety of ways in literature, often to evoke a sense of discomfort or melancholy. It’s frequently seen in works where the tone is informal or conversational, as the phrase itself is idiomatic and implies casual communication.
In Mark Twain’s Letters (1884), though not as widely cited as his novels, Mark Twain's letters showcase his use of colloquial language. In one such letter, he referred to being "under the weather" to describe a bout of illness, a reflection of the phrase's casual and accessible tone.
In J.M. Barrie's “Peter Pan” (1904), one of the characters expresses being “under the weather” after feeling seasick on the way to Neverland, further highlighting its maritime origins.
The phrase appears frequently in the works of American and British novelists throughout the 20th century, from noir fiction to contemporary novels, often used to describe a character’s illness or malaise. It’s become a shorthand for subtle physical or emotional ailment.
The phrase has been used in various sitcoms and dramas, especially when a character is feigning illness to avoid work or responsibilities. In the “Friends” episode “The One with Five Steaks and an Eggplant,” Joey uses “under the weather” as a casual excuse to stay in, reflecting its use in everyday speech.
The phrase occasionally appears in song lyrics to describe emotional lows. In popular songs, “under the weather” has been used metaphorically to describe feeling depressed or heartbroken.
The health and wellness industry often employs the phrase in advertisements, especially in cold and flu medicine commercials. The familiar and relatable nature of the phrase makes it perfect for marketing messages about health.
So, as you can see, the phrase "under the weather" has a rich history dating back to the seafaring world of the 19th century. From literature to pop culture, its evolution mirrors its idiomatic charm and universality. Whether it’s Mark Twain referencing his own ailments, or modern-day sitcom characters complaining about the flu, "under the weather" remains a popular way to express feeling unwell.
Comments