Hit the ceiling

Meaning

Become extremely angry.

Usage

Used when warning others about someone’s rage.

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.

Anger imagined as so high it touches the ceiling.

Used since the early 20th century in everyday speech.