Feeling under the weather
Meaning
To feel slightly ill or unwell.
Origin
The phrase 'under the weather' charts its course from the tempestuous seas of the 18th century, a time when life aboard a sailing ship was fraught with danger and discomfort. When a sailor fell ill or was overwhelmed by seasickness, the ship's captain would often order them to retreat below deck, away from the biting wind, drenching rain, and the violent pitching motion on the open 'weather' side of the ship. This sanctuary, literally 'under' the exposed elements, provided a much-needed respite for the ailing crewman. Thus, being sent 'under the weather' became the grim but common way to describe a sailor who was too sick to face the relentless conditions above deck, a term that quickly docked in everyday language to describe anyone feeling unwell.
Examples
- I can't come to the office today, I'm feeling under the weather and need to rest.
- After a long week of travel, she was feeling a bit under the weather and decided to stay home.