hot under the collar
Meaning
To feel angry, irritated, or embarrassed—often suddenly or in response to criticism.
Origin
From the physical sensation of warmth and flushing around the neck/chest area when someone is angry or embarrassed; the “collar” points to the neck area where this heat is felt.
Notes
Often implies someone is visibly or noticeably annoyed/embarrassed. Common in spoken English; can range from mildly irritated to quite angry depending on context.
Examples
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He got hot under the collar when the referee missed the obvious foul.
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I was starting to feel hot under the collar after waiting on hold for an hour.
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She gets hot under the collar whenever someone questions her integrity.
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Don’t get hot under the collar—let’s talk it through calmly.
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The email’s rude tone made him hot under the collar all afternoon.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with a form of “be” (get/become) + hot under the collar: “He got hot under the collar.” Can be modified by adverbs (really, a bit). Fixed phrase; “the collar” is standard.
Synonyms
- get angry
- lose one’s temper
- get worked up
- get upset
- see red
Antonyms
- stay calm
- keep one’s cool
- remain unruffled