What Does "Set One's Teeth" Mean?
To "set one's teeth" means to clench or grit your teeth together firmly, usually as a sign of:
- Determination or resolve in the face of difficulty
- Suppressed anger or frustration
- Bracing oneself for pain or an unpleasant experience
“She set her teeth and walked into the storm, refusing to turn back.”
Origin & History
The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century. It stems from the physical act of clenching the jaw—a natural human response to stress, pain, or intense focus.
In older literature, it often appears in dramatic or heroic contexts, emphasizing inner strength or stoicism.
“He set his teeth and bore the agony without a sound.” — Historical novel excerpt
Common Usage & Examples
- In literature: Used to convey a character’s inner turmoil or resolve.
- In everyday speech: “I had to set my teeth and finish that grueling hike.”
- Figuratively: Sometimes used even when no actual teeth-clenching occurs, symbolizing mental fortitude.
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