under the weather
/ˈʌndə ðə ˈweðə/
feeling a little sick
In the video
The boss says: “I’m feeling a bit under the weather.” Peter brings a rain cloud and puts it over her head: “Now you’re officially UNDER the weather!” She sneezes and explains that it means she is sick.
What it really means
“Under the weather” has nothing to do with the weather. It means you feel a little unwell, like when you have a light cold, a headache or you are very tired.
A popular story says it comes from sailing: sailors who felt seasick went below deck, away from the storm. Today it just means “not feeling well”.
When to use it
Use it when you take a sick day or explain why you are not at your best. It is a polite way to say you are sick without giving details. Use it only for small problems, not for serious illness.
Examples
- I’m a bit under the weather, so I’ll work from home today.
- You look under the weather. Do you need a break?
- She’s been under the weather all week.
Common mistake
✗ I’m under the weather because it’s raining.
✓ I’m a bit under the weather, so I’ll work from home today.
The phrase has nothing to do with rain. It only means you feel a little sick.
Similar phrases
- feeling off not feeling quite right, in your body or your mood; more casual
- coming down with something starting to get sick; the first signs are there