Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

have-one's-heart-in-one's-mouth

idiom
ˈhæv wʌnz hɑrt ɪn wʌnz maʊθ
Definition
To feel intense anxiety or fear.
Examples
  • When she heard the news about the test results, she had her heart in her mouth.
  • As the roller coaster climbed higher, I could feel my heart in my mouth.
  • During the job interview, I had my heart in my mouth the entire time.
Meaning
This expression describes a state of nervousness or apprehension, as if one’s heart is racing with worry.
Synonyms
  • have butterflies in one’s stomach
  • be on edge
  • feel apprehensive