give someone the pip

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give (one) the pip

To cause one to be annoyed or unhappy. Although the "pip" is an avian disease, it came to be used to describe minor human maladies. My new job is giving me the pip—all they let me do is make copies and send faxes.

See also: give, 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, someone