General
conniption
What does conniption mean?
An overwrought emotional fit—a notch above a hissy fit, often with wild gesturing. Usually "a conniption" or "conniption fit."
"Grandpa 'bout had a conniption when he saw the phone bill."
Origin
American English, first recorded 1833; origin uncertain—possibly a fanciful formation related to "corruption" (anger) or dialectal "canapshus."
Frequently asked questions
What is a conniption?
A conniption is an overwrought fit of rage, hysteria, or panic, a notch above a hissy fit and often with wild gesturing.
How do you use conniption?
It usually appears as 'a conniption' or 'conniption fit,' as in 'he nearly had a conniption when he saw the bill.'
Where does conniption come from?
It's American English first recorded in 1833; the origin is uncertain, possibly a fanciful formation related to 'corruption' (anger).
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
