Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
raise one's hackles
idiom
/reɪz wʌnz ˈhæklz/
Definition
To cause someone to become angry or defensive.
Examples
- The unfair criticism from his boss raised his hackles.
- When she mentioned the controversial topic, it raised everyone’s hackles.
- The sudden noise raised the dog’s hackles, signaling its alertness.
Meaning
This expression often implies that something has provoked a strong emotional response, typically irritation or anger.
Synonyms
- anger
- irritate
- upset
- offend
- rouse
