Apedia

Handle Fly Suddenly Angry Control Refers Axe Head

Metaphor Fly off the handle
Question Meaning What do you mean?
Meaning

If someone flies off the handle, they suddenly become very angry and appear out of control.

Question Explanation Why does it mean this?
Explanation

This saying refers to an axe head coming loose and flying off its handle as it is being swung.

Question Example Example
Example

“He had too much work to do, and was very stressed. But when I suggested taking a holiday, he flew off the handle and shouted at me, saying that he didn’t have time!”

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