have a cow

have a cow

To get very upset about something, often more than is expected or warranted. Jeez, I'll pay for the damage. Don't have a cow! My mother will have a cow if we get a stain on the new sofa. I wasn't in a hurry to tell you about my accident because I knew you'd have a cow!

See also: cow, have

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

have a cow

AMERICAN, INFORMAL

If you have a cow, you become very upset or angry. He'll have a cow if he ever finds out!

See also: cow, have

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

have a cow

become angry, excited, or agitated. North American informal

1990 Susin Nielsen Wheels ‘Don't have a cow,’ she said huffily. ‘It's no big deal.’

See also: cow, have

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

have a ˈcow

(American English, slang) suddenly become very excited or angry: My dad spent $500 on a new coat and my mom had a cow.

See also: cow, have

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

have a cow

Slang To become amazed, angered, or upset: He had a cow when he saw the mess we made.

See also: cow, have

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.