Green around the gills

Meaning

Looking pale or seasick.

Usage

Used to describe someone feeling ill.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Paleness associated with nausea is compared to green tones.

Used by sailors describing seasickness in the 1800s.