froth at the mouth

1. Literally, to produce foam from one's mouth, as due to a disease or other ailment. All of a sudden she collapsed in a fit, convulsing and frothing at the mouth.

2. Figuratively, to be viciously and uncontrollably angry or upset. The protesters had formed outside the courthouse, frothing at the mouth as the alleged murderer made his way up the steps.

froth (or foam) at the mouth

be very angry.

This phrase stems from the involuntary production of large amounts of saliva from the mouth during a seizure or fit.

See also: froth, mouth

References in periodicals archive ?

Let's face it, the GSi is for people who like their motors to froth at the mouth. Strap yourself into the Recarro seat - they come as standard - and enjoy the six seconds it takes to get to sixty thanks to its 200 horsepower, two-litre motor.

Revved Up: Tested Vauxhall Astra GSi

All that was revealed about Duncan was her weight problem and ability to froth at the mouth for a few quid.

Medium's secrets remain trapped in history

But within minutes of swallowing the pill the cat started to shake and froth at the mouth and the distraught owner rushed the animal to the vet.

Kitten died after pet shop flea pill; Owner warns of over-the-counter tablets

Glasgow-born Youdale was found with "froth at the mouth" after a suspected drugs overdose.

Fugitive in kidnapping held in Goa; JUSTICE

Innocent passers-by cower from the sound waves, elderly citizens are pinned against walls by the oscillation and helpless individuals like me froth at the mouth at their inability to take action.

Season of growing noise: outlook not sunny

Whispering callers made 27 per cent of people froth at the mouth followed by messages with too much detail which annoyed one in six.