What Does It Mean?
To “set someone’s teeth on edge” means to cause a feeling of irritation, discomfort, or unease—often from a harsh sound, unpleasant sensation, or disturbing idea.
The phrase evokes the physical reaction one might have to the sound of nails on a chalkboard: a shiver, a grimace, and yes—even your teeth feel oddly tense.
Historical Origin
The expression dates back to at least the 16th century and appears in the King James Version of the Bible (Ezekiel 18:2):
“The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge.”
This biblical proverb suggests that the consequences of one generation’s actions affect the next—a notion that itself might “set teeth on edge” for its injustice.
In Literature & Pop Culture
Shakespeare never used the exact phrase, but similar sensory discomfort appears throughout his works. Later writers like Charles Dickens and George Orwell employed vivid language that could easily “set teeth on edge.”
- The screech of the subway brakes set my teeth on edge.
- His smug tone during the meeting really set everyone’s teeth on edge.
- That dissonant chord in the film score was meant to set the audience’s teeth on edge.
Why Do We Say It?
Linguists believe the phrase stems from a real physiological response. Certain high-pitched or grating sounds trigger a reflexive tension in the jaw and facial muscles—an evolutionary remnant perhaps linked to danger signals.
In modern usage, it’s more metaphorical—but no less visceral.