Not know which way is up

Meaning

Be disoriented or unsure of what is happening.

Usage

Used whenever a situation is confusing or chaotic.

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.

General metaphor from high winds or storms making orientation difficult.

Used since the nineteenth century in newspaper reports.