be in high/low spirits

be in high spirits

To be happy and upbeat, often due to some success or positive occurrence. Ellen's been in high spirits ever since she found out she got the lead in the school play. Of course the kids are in high spirits—they're off from school all week! They've been in high spirits ever since their offer on their dream home was accepted.

See also: high, spirit

be in low spirits

To be unhappy or sad, often due to being discouraged. Ellen's been in low spirits ever since she found out she didn't get the lead in the school play. Of course the kids are in low spirits—today is the last day of summer vacation. They've been in low spirits ever since they learned that someone outbid them on their dream house.

See also: low, spirit

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

be in high/low ˈspirits

(also in good/poor ˈspirits) be happy and cheerful/sad and miserable: John was in rather low spirits all evening. ▶ ˌhigh-ˈspirited, ˌlow-ˈspirited adj.: high-spirited children

See also: high, low, spirit

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017