(as|) cross as two sticks
1
used to refer to an extremely angry or impatient person
The idiom "cross as two sticks" is believed to have originated in British English, and its exact origin is unclear. However, it likely comes from the notion of crossing two sticks, which can create tension or conflict, symbolizing someone's anger or irritation.This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely angry, irritated, or in a bad mood.
- After the argument, she was cross as two sticks and didn't speak to him for days.
- Don't talk to her right now; she's cross as two sticks because of the delay.
- I can already tell she'll be cross as two sticks when she finds out about the mess.
- I don't know why he's acting like that.He's been cross as two sticks all day.