[give] {sb} the bird
1
to intentionally and rudely display an offensive hand gesture, involving raising the middle finger while extending the others downward, as a sign of strong disapproval, annoyance, or disrespect toward someone
The origin of the idiom "give someone the bird" is believed to date back to ancient Roman times, where an obscene gesture involving the middle finger, known as the "digitus impudicus" or "the impudent finger," was used as an offensive insult. This gesture persisted through various cultures and time periods, eventually evolving into the familiar act of raising the middle finger to convey contempt or rudeness. It often occurs in confrontational or heated situations, such as during arguments, disputes, or road rage incidents.
- When the driver cut him off in traffic, he couldn't resist giving them the bird.
- After hearing his rude comments, she was tempted to give him the bird, but she decided to stay composed.
- Instead of arguing with his neighbor, he simply gave him the bird and walked away to avoid further confrontation.
- The unruly spectator at the sports event was asked to leave the stadium after giving the referee the bird.
- In a fit of frustration, she rolled down her car window and gave the slow-moving traffic the bird.
2
to laugh or shout insults at someone
The origin the idiom "give someone the bird" can be attributed to the development of the English language and idiomatic expressions over time. The phrase itself has been in use for many years to describe various forms of disrespectful or offensive reactions, both through gestures and verbal means. It is used to describe a situation where someone responds to another person by verbally insulting or ridiculing them in a hostile or disrespectful manner. It is often used to convey strong disapproval or disdain.
- The crowd gave that player the bird after he dropped the ball.
- When they disagreed about the project's direction, they started giving each other the bird, and it turned into a shouting match.
- Fans can be quite passionate, and when their team is losing, they may give the opposing team's players the bird.
- In some political debates, candidates may give each other the bird by exchanging personal insults and derogatory remarks.