Definition of pissed

The word "pissed" has its origins in the Middle English dialect, where it was used to refer to strong beer or ale. This usage dates back to the 15th century, where "pissed" was actually spelled as "pesit" or "pisit," with the same meaning. However, as time passed, the word's connotation began to change. By the 16th century, "pissed" started to take on a more negative connotation, referring to excessively drinking and becoming drunk. Over time, the phrase "to be pissed" became a more widely used expression to describe being drunk, likely due to its simplicity and direct nature. Today, the word "pissed" is commonly used in informal English, often as a milder expression to indicate being angry or irritated. Interestingly, the origin of "pissed" sheds light on the historical significance of beer and ale in English culture. In traditional alehouses, customers would often drink large, strong beers that could lead to intoxication, with the potential to be "pissed" following a night of heavy drinking. Despite its origins, the usage of "pissed" as a term for being angry is not widely accepted by many people, particularly those who associate it strongly with drunkenness. As a result, some alternative expressions have emerged as more socially acceptable ways to indicate anger, such as "pissed off" becoming "annoyed" or "angry."