High Dudgeon
/ˌhaɪ ˈdʌdʒən/noun
A state of intense resentment, indignation, or offended pride.
Did you know?The phrase is centuries old, but the origin of “dudgeon” itself remains uncertain, making this expression a rare linguistic mystery built around anger.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
English
hēah
“High, lofty, or exalted”
Middle English
English
heigh
“High or elevated; later used intensively in phrases”
16th Century
English
dudgeon
“A feeling of resentment, indignation, or offended pride; its ultimate origin is uncertain”
1590s
English
in high dudgeon
“In a state of furious resentment or offended dignity”
Modern English
English
high dudgeon
“Intense indignation, usually expressed with dramatic offended pride”