Keep a stiff upper lip
Meaning
To face difficult or distressing circumstances with courage and without showing emotion or distress.
Origin
The phrase's origin lies in the physical manifestation of fear or distress: a trembling upper lip. To "keep a stiff upper lip" meant literally to clench it, preventing this tell-tale sign of weakness. This physical act of control became a powerful symbol, deeply ingrained in the British national character, especially during the 20th century through the trials of two World Wars. It embodied the ideal of stoicism and self-control, becoming a core tenet of British resolve in the face of adversity, where displaying emotion was seen as unmanly or unpatriotic. The image of the unflappable Brit, calmly enduring hardship, cemented the phrase into the global lexicon as a byword for quiet resilience.
Examples
- Even after losing his job, he told his family to keep a stiff upper lip and that they would get through it together.
- When the explorers ran out of supplies in the freezing wilderness, their leader urged them to keep a stiff upper lip and push on.