get under skin
get under skin
Meaning | Definition
- to be irritating
- to bother a person
- to annoy someone
- to cause an affect that is not only strong but also one which cannot be forgotten easily
- to provoke someone
- to preoccupy someone to an extent of becoming an obsession
Example Sentences
- The new manager is getting under my skin.
- My mom’s narrow attitude about gender equality really gets under my skin.
- I know that she is capable of getting under your skin but please bear with her for a while.
- I am just going to tolerate you until you find another apartment. Don’t get under my skin until then.
- You alone can stop him from getting under your skin.
- Simon really got under my skin when he said something so derogatory about women.
- The palace is magnificent but something about this haunting beauty got under my skin.
- I love this new purse. The last one was really getting under my skin with all the bows on it.
- I am leaving because you feel I am getting under your skin.
Origin
The phrase originates from the fact that when literal, if someone got under the first layer of skin, it will cause an irritation. It may not necessarily be painful but will completely pre-occupy the person.
Share your opinions3 Opinions
Hello, I am trying to find out when the phrase, “getting under one’s skin”, (meaning when someone gets on your nerves) first originated, what year? I have written an historical fiction novel which takes place in 1848 and I use this term to describe one main character’s feelings for the other one. Thank you!
Gail Wells
‒ Gail A. Wells December 4, 2021
The term comes from pealing eggs. If you don’t get under the skin the protective she’ll cannot be removed. This irratant bug bs is untrue.
‒ Phillip October 26, 2021
Origin – Scabies Mites burrowing under one’s skin
‒ T July 26, 2018