like a bear with a sore head
1
showing a very bad mood and reacting unpleasantly to things that would not normally be a problem
The idiom "like a bear with a sore head" originated from the behavior of bears when they are in pain or discomfort. Bears are known to become irritable and grumpy when they are suffering from physical ailments or injuries, and this behavior inspired the metaphorical use of the phrase. It is used to describe someone who is exceptionally irritable, bad-tempered, or easily angered. It suggests that the person is in a state of extreme irritability, similar to how a bear might react when experiencing physical pain or discomfort.
- Don't talk to him right now; he's in a foul mood, cross as a bear with a sore head.
- Her constant complaints and negative attitude make her act like a bear with a sore head most of the time.
- The boss came into the office this morning, looking as cross as a bear with a sore head, and no one dared to approach him.