GETS GOAT Meaning and
Definition
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"Gets goat" is an idiomatic English expression that typically means to irritate, annoy, or provoke someone. It is used to describe actions or behaviors that successfully agitate or disturb a person, causing them to become frustrated, angry, or upset.
The expression "gets goat" may have originated from the behavior of goats, known for being easily irritable and quick to anger. In this context, the term implies that an action has been successful in arousing a negative reaction from someone, in a similar way to how one might provoke or annoy a goat.
The phrase "gets goat" can be used in various situations, both in casual conversation and in more formal contexts. For example, one might say that a certain behavior or comment "really gets my goat." This indicates that the mentioned action or remark is especially irritating or bothersome to the speaker.
The expression is often used to express frustration or anger towards a specific action, behavior, or individual. It can also be employed humorously, with individuals playfully using it to convey that they are annoyed or provoked, but not necessarily in a serious or deeply angered manner.
Overall, "gets goat" is a colloquial expression used to describe something that irritates or annoys someone, making them highly susceptible to emotional reactions, especially negative ones.
Common Misspellings for GETS GOAT
Etymology of GETS GOAT
The phrase "gets goat" is not a recognized or commonly used idiom in the English language. It seems to be a combination of two separate phrases, "gets someone's goat" and "gets someone's back up", both of which have different origins.
1. "Gets someone's goat" means to annoy or frustrate someone. The exact origin of this phrase is debated. One theory suggests that it comes from horse racing, where goats were used to keep racehorses calm. If someone wanted to sabotage a horse, they would sneak into the stable and steal the goat, causing the horse to become agitated. However, this theory has no concrete evidence to support it.
2. "Gets someone's back up" means to irritate or provoke someone. This phrase comes from the image of a cat arching its back, raising its fur, and displaying its aggression to fend off a threat.
