FLIES OFF THE HANDLE Meaning and
Definition
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Flies off the handle is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who becomes easily or uncontrollably angry or loses their temper in a sudden and explosive manner. This phrase is often used to signify an extreme and uncontrolled reaction to a specific situation or event, resulting in an outburst of rage or frustration.
The term "flies off the handle" can be traced back to the design of old-fashioned tools such as axes and knives. In these tools, the handle was often attached to the main part by a wedge or a type of pin. Sometimes, due to prolonged wear or other factors, the handle could become loose and suddenly detach from the main part of the tool, causing it to "fly off the handle." This unexpected separation and resulting lack of control over the tool's direction or impact became a metaphor for losing control of one's emotions.
When an individual "flies off the handle," they typically respond in an impulsive and irrational manner, exhibiting behaviors such as yelling, screaming, or even physical aggression. This person may temporarily lose their ability to reason or think clearly, often saying or doing things they later regret. The phrase emphasizes the suddenness and intensity of the anger, suggesting that it happens in a split second, much like an object becoming dislodged from its handle.
Overall, "flies off the handle" captures the notion of someone losing their temper in a rapid, explosive, and uncontrolled manner, often leading to negative consequences for themselves and those around them.
Common Misspellings for FLIES OFF THE HANDLE
- f lies off the handle
- fl ies off the handle
- fli es off the handle
- flie s off the handle
- flies o ff the handle
- flies of f the handle
- flies off t he handle
- flies off th e handle
- flies off the h andle
- flies off the ha ndle
- flies off the han dle
- flies off the hand le
- flies off the handl e
