have a cow

Definition

To get angry; have a fit.

Etymology

Unknown. Popularized by the TV show The Simpsons where it was one of the catchphrases of Bart Simpson.

Example Sentences

• "My mom had a cow when I came in late."
• "Dad says I'm too young to go steady and seems to think I'm going to drag a girl up the aisle instead of to a school dance. He won't let me watch rock 'n' roll shows, and he'd "have a cow" if he knew I watched 77 Sunset Strip."
• ""Of all the fates on heaven and earth, why did this one befall me?" "Don't have a cow, dad.""