down in the mouth
1
feeling sad or discouraged
The phrase "down in the mouth" originated in the late 18th or early 19th century, describing someone who appears sad or dejected based on the physical expression of a drooping mouth. It can be used to describe someone feeling low after a setback, someone expressing their dissatisfaction or frustration, or someone who is generally feeling downcast.
- Molly's been moping around all week, and I have no idea why she's so down in the mouth.
- Rob has been down in the mouth ever since Gloria broke up with him.
- After hearing the news, he looked quite down in the mouth and couldn't muster a smile.
- She had been down in the mouth for weeks after losing her job.
- Despite the cheerful surroundings, she felt down in the mouth and couldn't shake her sadness.