The expression “under the weather” means feeling unwell or slightly ill. If someone says, “I’m a bit under the weather,” they usually mean they’re not seriously sick, but not at their best.
The phrase has nautical roots. In the 17th and 18th centuries, sailors who felt seasick or unwell during rough storms were sent below deck, literally under the weather—shielded from wind, rain, and crashing waves. Being exposed to harsh weather on deck could worsen illness, so going below was both practical and restorative.
Over time, the phrase left the sea and entered everyday English. Today, it no longer refers to storms or ships, but the imagery remains. Just as sailors sought shelter from bad weather, we use the expression to describe seeking rest when our health feels unsettled.
