The commonly used phrase, under the weather, means “(feeling) a little ill”—such as with a mild cold or a hangover. It cannot be used to describe serious illness. Researchers agree that this phrase came from the language of sailors. When a sailor on a boat feels sick, they must stay below decks, inside the boat, out of the weather—so, literally, under the weather. The phrase first appeared in print in 1835.
More Examples of the Phrase “Under the weather” Used in a Sentence
- “I was feeling under the weather coming into the competition.”
- Maddow was slightly under the weather, and sipped hot water.
- Yesterday, Juan went home early due to feeling under the weather
- Be flexible, and let employees work from home if they’re feeling under the weather.
- First, if you’re feeling under the weather, you should take note of your symptoms; then, visit the doctor if they worsen.
- Twice there was a scare from teammates who felt under the weather but tested negative.