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Dudgeon

(pronounced duj-un)  noun

Definition

a fit of resentment, offense, or anger, now usually in the phrase “in high dudgeon”; a feeling of indignation at something regarded as a wrong or insult.

Main Example

• Democrats in Washington are in high dudgeon following that extremely controversial letter signed by 47 Republican senators and sent directly to Iran's leadership. Democrats allege that such a communication from an American political party to a foreign head of state is unprecedented in the 200+ year history of this nation and seriously undermines the Obama administration's efforts to reach a nuclear agreement with the Persian Gulf nation.

Workplace Examples

• Yes, Phil's resignation was sort of sudden and unexpected, but I know for a fact that he mulled over it for several days and even discussed it with members of the board. So, it was not something he did in high dudgeon or in a huff.
• Erika, you are not the only one without a name badge—they forgot to make one for several of us that are attending this conference. So, cool down! You don't have to be in such high dudgeon over it.

Other Examples

• someone commenting: “I was amazed to see Kathleen storm out of the meeting in such high dudgeon, and over something really very trivial. I hadn't realized she could be so petulant. Very unprofessional.”
• talking about a coworker who is miffed over his unexpected transfer to a small field office: “Yeah, Frank is still in high dudgeon. It'll take him a while to get over it.”
• to recommend anger management classes for someone who gets into high dudgeon at the drop of a hat
• during Congressional hearings, two members of the House who invariably come across as being in ill humor and high dudgeon: Republican Darrell Issa and Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee

© 2016 V.J. Singal
No part of this may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the author.