Kicking up a fuss
Meaning
To make a strong, often noisy or agitated, protest or complaint about something.
Origin
The word "fuss" itself emerged from Scottish or northern English dialects in the late 18th century, originally describing a needless stir, excitement, or anxious concern. It was a word for a minor commotion. However, it gained its full energetic meaning when paired with the verb "kicking up." This vivid combination conjures the image of someone physically agitating, perhaps stamping their feet or thrashing, much like a child or an animal might demonstrate displeasure. This physical metaphor for energetic protest or spirited complaint solidified in the 19th century, transforming a simple feeling of bother into an active, often loud, and undeniable display of dissatisfaction that demands attention.
Examples
- When the airline canceled her flight without notice, Sarah started kicking up a fuss at the service desk.
- The children were kicking up a fuss because they didn't want to go to bed yet and wanted to watch more TV.