BLOW STACK Meaning and
Definition
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Blow stack is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation where someone becomes extremely angry, frustrated, or loses their temper in a sudden and explosive manner. It often occurs when they reach their breaking point and can no longer control their emotions. This phrase originates from the image of a pressure cooker or steam engine reaching its maximum pressure, causing the release valve or chimney stack to blow off with a loud noise and a burst of steam or smoke.
When someone "blows their stack," they typically exhibit signs of intense anger, such as yelling, screaming, or engaging in aggressive behavior. Their emotions may become uncontrollable, leading them to say or do things they might regret later. This outburst is often triggered by a specific event or situation that pushes them over the edge, overwhelming their ability to remain calm and composed.
Blowing one's stack is not only a physical manifestation of anger but also an emotional one. It can negatively affect relationships, as others may feel intimidated, scared, or offended by this sudden outburst. The phrase emphasizes the explosive nature of the anger, suggesting that it is intense, sudden, and volatile.
Overall, "blow stack" describes an instance when someone's anger or frustration reaches a boiling point, causing an explosive release of emotions and possibly resulting in negative consequences for both the person experiencing it and those around them.
Common Misspellings for BLOW STACK
- vlow stack
- nlow stack
- hlow stack
- glow stack
- bkow stack
- bpow stack
- boow stack
- bliw stack
- blkw stack
- bllw stack
- blpw stack
- bl0w stack
- bl9w stack
- bloq stack
- bloa stack
- blos stack
- bloe stack
- blo3 stack
- blo2 stack
- blow atack
Etymology of BLOW STACK
The phrase "blow stack" is a colloquial expression that originated in the United States. Its etymology can be understood by examining the meanings of the individual words within the phrase.
Firstly, the word "blow" refers to the act of forcefully expelling air or causing something to move by means of air pressure. In the context of the phrase "blow stack", it metaphorically refers to the release of accumulated pressure or frustration.
The word "stack" primarily denotes a pile of objects arranged in a neat vertical manner. However, in this phrase, it specifically refers to a chimney stack or smokestack. Chimney stacks are tall vertical structures commonly found on rooftops, especially those of industrial buildings, used to ventilate smoke from fires or furnaces.
Idioms with the word BLOW STACK
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blow stack
The idiom "blow stack" means to become extremely angry or lose one's temper.
