Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

the shits

slang

ðə ʃɪts

Definition

An informal and vulgar term for severe diarrhea or an upset stomach.

Examples

After eating at that sketchy food truck, I had the shits for two days.
When he found out he lost his job, he really felt like he had the shits.

Meaning

When someone says they have ‘the shits,’ it typically refers to experiencing loose, watery bowel movements, often accompanied by discomfort or urgency. This phrase can also be used metaphorically to express a feeling of deep frustration or distress in a situation.