[go] up the wall
1
to react to something in a very angry and furious way
The origin of the idiom "go up the wall" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century. The expression likely draws on the image of someone becoming so frustrated or agitated that they metaphorically climb up the walls, symbolizing their heightened state of distress or irritation. This expression is commonly used in informal conversations, personal relationships, or casual settings to convey a sense of exasperation. It can be used to describe reactions to persistent noise, delays, technical difficulties, or any circumstance that tests one's patience and sanity.
- She goes up the wall every time her computer freezes in the middle of an important task.
- The constant barking of the neighbor's dog drives him up the wall.
- I went up the wall when I realized I had lost my keys right before leaving for work.
- They went up the wall after waiting for hours for their delayed flight to take off.
- He will go up the wall if he finds out someone ate the last slice of his favorite pizza.