The phrase "ate heart out" is often used to express envy or resentment towards someone who has something that we wish we had. In terms of its spelling, the verb "ate" is pronounced as /eɪt/ (ayt), while "heart" is pronounced as /hɑːrt/ (hahrt). The preposition "out" is pronounced as /aʊt/ (owt). Combined, the phrase is pronounced as /eɪt hɑːrt aʊt/ (ayt hahrt owt). While the phrase may seem archaic, it has been a part of the English language for centuries and remains a popular expression today.
The phrase "ate heart out" implies a deep emotional state or feeling typically associated with envy, regret, or longing. It denotes a sense of intense dissatisfaction or jealousy experienced by an individual upon perceiving someone else's achievements, possessions, or experiences. The term "ate" in this context alludes to the consumption or devouring of one's own heart, metaphorically implying the consuming nature of these negative emotions.
When someone says that they "ate their heart out," they express feelings of bitterness or resentment towards another person's success or happiness, particularly when it exceeds their own. It encompasses a powerful emotional state that could manifest as overwhelming envy or sorrow. This expression may also suggest a sense of self-pity and regret for one's own missed opportunities or shortcomings when compared to others.
The phrase can often be used humorously or light-heartedly, acknowledging the somewhat irrational nature of the emotions it represents. It highlights the internal struggle experienced by an individual as they grapple with feelings of discontentment or yearning, while simultaneously understanding the futility of such feelings.
In summary, "ate heart out" encapsulates the emotional response of an individual who is consumed by envy, jealousy, or sorrow upon witnessing the achievements or happiness of others, often accompanied by a sense of regret or self-pity.