The phrase “sick as a dog” is a common expression used to describe someone who is feeling very ill or unwell. The phrase is often used to describe severe and unpleasant physical symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. The phrase has become a part of the English language and is used familiar in many parts of the world.

Understanding the history and usage of this phrase is important because it can provide insight into the evolution of language and how expressions are created and used over time. Additionally, understanding the meaning and origin of common phrases like “sick as a dog” can help us better communicate with others and comprehend the cultural references made in literature and media (television, radio, or social media).

The phrase “sick as a dog” is a common expression used to describe someone feeling very ill. However, its origins and early usage remain unclear. In this article, we delve into the “Sick As A Dog” history and usage to better understand the meaning and relevance of this phrase in today’s society.

History

The origin of the phrase “sick as a dog” is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the 17th century. The phrase likely originated in England or Scotland and may have been inspired by the idea that dogs are prone to illness, just as humans are.

Early uses of the phrase can be found in literature from the 18th and 19th centuries. For example, in Samuel Johnson’s 1755 dictionary, the phrase is defined as “excessively sick, or nauseated.” In Charles Dickens’ 1865 novel “Our Mutual Friend,” one character exclaims, “I felt as sick as a dog.” These early examples suggest that the phrase has been in use for centuries and has remained popular over time.

Possible reasons why dogs were associated with sickness in this phrase include the fact that dogs are commonly known to eat things they shouldn’t, and can often suffer from digestive issues. Additionally, dogs can contract illnesses and infections that can make them feel unwell, much like humans. Finally, it’s possible that the association between dogs and sickness simply arose due to the perceived negative nuance associated with dogs in certain cultures, such as those where dogs were seen as unclean.

In the past, the phrase “sick as a dog” was commonly used to describe severe illness or physical discomfort. It was a popular expression used in many different contexts, such as in literature, medicine, and everyday conversation. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the phrase was especially prevalent in British and American English, and it was often used to describe the symptoms of a wide range of ailments, from minor illnesses like the common cold to more serious conditions like tuberculosis or cancer.

Examples

Examples of past usage of the phrase can be found in literature and media from many different eras. For instance, in William Shakespeare’s play “Troilus and Cressida,” the character Thersites describes a sickly soldier as “sick as a dog,” indicating that the phrase was in use in the late 16th century. In the 20th century, the phrase appeared in many popular films and TV shows, such as “The Honeymooners” and “The Simpsons,” often as a way to convey a character’s extreme physical discomfort. For example, in the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger, the character Holden Caulfield said that he feels “so damn lonesome, so depressed and all,” and that he’s “sick as a dog.” This usage illustrates how the phrase can be used to describe both physical and emotional discomfort. Another example of the use of this phrase in media can be found in the movie “The Shawshank Redemption” when character Brooks Hatlen, who has just been released from prison, says “I’m tellin’ you, these walls are funny. First you hate ’em, then you get used to ’em. After long enough, you get so you depend on ’em. That’s institutionalized. They send you here for life, and that’s exactly what they take. The part that counts, anyway. I’m not even close to being sick, Doc. I’ve felt better than this.” The phrase in this context is used to describe a state of emotional distress that has become almost like a physical ailment for the character.

In modern times, the phrase “sick as a dog” is still commonly used to describe someone who is feeling extremely unwell or experiencing severe symptoms. The phrase has become ingrained in our everyday language and is often used in casual conversation to express sympathy or concern for someone who is ill. Despite the evolution of language over time, this phrase has remained relevant and still holds the same meaning it did centuries ago.

Examples of recent usage of the phrase in popular culture can be found in music, movies, and TV shows. One recent example is in the song “Sick as a Dog” by the band AJR, which uses the phrase as a metaphor for feeling lost and confused. Another example can be found in the TV show “Friends,” where one character uses the phrase to describe the severity of his hangover. These examples illustrate the continued use of the phrase in modern times and how it has become a part of our everyday vernacular.

In conclusion, the phrase “sick as a dog” has a long and interesting history, and has been used for centuries to describe the severity of illness or physical discomfort. From its origins to its modern usage, this phrase has become a common part of our everyday language.

It is important to understand the meaning and origin of common phrases like “sick as a dog” because they offer a glimpse into the evolution of language and culture over time. By examining the history and usage of such phrases, we can gain a better understanding of how language and expressions evolve and change with the times.

Ultimately, the phrase “sick as a dog” continues to hold relevance in today’s society, as it remains a common expression used to describe illness or discomfort. As language and culture continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this phrase and others like it will continue to be used and adapted over time.

Dictionary.com. (n.d.). Sick as a dog. In Dictionary.com. Retrieved March 12, 2023, from https://www.dictionary.com/browse/sick-as-a-dog