The phrase "bottle up" refers to suppressing or containing one's emotions or feelings. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /ˈbɑː.təl.ʌp/. The pronunciation of the initial "b" sound is represented by the IPA symbol /b/, while the "o" sound is represented by /ɑː/ and the "t" sound by /t/. The second syllable is stressed and the "le" combination is pronounced with a schwa sound /ə/. The final "up" syllable is pronounced with an unvoiced /p/ sound.
Verb: to bottle up
1. To contain or suppress strong emotions, thoughts, or feelings; to avoid expressing or releasing them. This term is commonly used to describe the act of keeping negative emotions or thoughts hidden or repressed rather than openly expressing them. When one "bottles up" their emotions, they avoid sharing their feelings with others and tend to keep them locked inside. This may be done to maintain composure, avoid conflict, or present a facade of calmness, but can often lead to increased stress or eventual emotional outbursts if not addressed properly. For example, Sarah always bottles up her frustrations at work, never sharing her concerns or dissatisfaction with her colleagues or supervisor.
2. To store or package liquid, typically in bottles. This definition refers to the physical act of putting liquid, such as water, beverages, or other substances, into containers specifically designed to hold them. When one "bottles up" something, they transfer it into a bottle or bottles for storage or consumption. For instance, after making homemade jam, Sarah bottles up the excess in glass jars for later use or gifting.
Overall, the term "bottle up" can refer to both emotional containment and the act of storing liquids in bottles.
The term "bottle up" has its origins in English idiomatic expressions and metaphors.
Etymologically, "bottle" comes from the Old French word "boteille", which was derived from the Medieval Latin "butticula", meaning "a little cask or flask". This Latin word was further derived from the Latin "buttis", meaning "cask" or "vessel". "Bottle" essentially refers to a container for liquids.
The phrase "bottle up" itself originates from a metaphorical usage, representing the act of putting something inside a bottle and sealing it. When applied to emotions or feelings, "bottle up" implies suppressing or repressing them, akin to confining them within a container.
The figurative sense of "bottle up" meaning to restrain or suppress something is believed to have emerged in the early 19th century.