(as) cross as two sticks

/az kɹˈɒs az tˈuː stˈɪks/

/æz kɹˈɔs æz tˈuː stˈɪks/

[phrase]

[PHRASE]

used to refer to an extremely angry or impatient person

(as|) cross as two sticks definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "cross as two sticks" and when to use it?

The idiom "cross as two sticks" is believed to have originated in British English, and its exact origin is unclear. However, it likely comes from the notion of crossing two sticks, which can create tension or conflict, symbolizing someone's anger or irritation.This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely angry, irritated, or in a bad mood.

Examples

1. He's been cross as two sticks all day.

2. After the argument, she was cross as two sticks and didn't speak to him for days.

3. I can already tell she'll be cross as two sticks when she finds out about the mess.

Nearby words