give someone the pip

give someone the pip

make someone irritated or depressed. informal, dated

Pip is a disease of poultry or other birds. In the late 15th century the word came to be used, often humorously, of various ill-defined or minor ailments suffered by people and so the informal sense of ‘ill humour’ developed.

1976 Scotsman I feel it's my duty but I'm not keen. My grandchildren give me the pip.

See also: give, pip