The phrase "worried sick" is a common expression used to describe extreme worry or anxiety. The word "worried" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈwʌr.id/, indicating the pronunciation of wuh-rid. The word "sick" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /sɪk/, indicating the pronunciation of sik. When used together, "worried sick" describes a deep level of concern that can cause one to feel physically unwell. This phrase is often used colloquially to express a high degree of anxiety or stress.
The phrase "worried sick" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of extreme concern or anxiety that has a physical impact on one's health. It reflects a situation in which a person is excessively worried or stressed to the point that it affects their physical well-being, often leading to symptoms such as loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, stomachaches, headaches, or even nausea.
The term combines the emotional state of being worried with the physical manifestation of sickness, emphasizing the magnitude of distress and its debilitating effects. It implies that the individual's level of anxiety is so intense that it overwhelms them mentally, thereby negatively impacting their overall physical health.
The phrase "worried sick" is primarily used to highlight the significant toll that excessive worrying can have on a person's well-being. It helps to illustrate the interconnectedness of the mind and body, emphasizing that mental distress can manifest physically, thereby reinforcing the importance of addressing and alleviating anxious thoughts and feelings.
Furthermore, "worried sick" can be applied to a wide range of scenarios, both personal and professional, where individuals are deeply concerned about outcomes or uncertainties. It captures the distressing impact that excessive worry can have, underscoring the need to manage stress and anxiety effectively in order to maintain overall health and well-being.
The expression "worried sick" has its origins in the blending of two separate words or phrases.
The word "worried" comes from the Old English term "wyrgan", which means "to strangle" or "to choke". Over time, it took on the meaning of feeling distressed, anxious, or troubled.
The word "sick" comes from the Old English word "sēoc", which refers to a state of illness or disease.
The two words were combined to form the phrase "worried sick", implying a state of extreme anxiety or distress that affects one's physical health. It conveys the idea that excessive worry and stress can have a detrimental impact on a person's overall well-being.