bit by a barn mouse
tipsy; slightly drunk
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He had a few drinks and is now bit by a barn mouse.”
“They are bit by a barn mouse after the wedding toast.”
“I feel bit by a barn mouse because I drank on an empty stomach.”
“After two glasses of wine at dinner, she felt a little bit by a barn mouse and started laughing at everything.”
“You look a little bit by a barn mouse after that strong cocktail, so maybe you should drink some water before we leave.”
“We only had one beer each, but the heat makes me feel bit by a barn mouse already.”
“The host seemed a little bit by a barn mouse while greeting guests, likely because he had been tasting the punch all afternoon.”
“Although he usually maintains a stoic composure, the celebratory champagne left him feeling slightly bit by a barn mouse as the evening progressed.”
disputed origin
The phrase is probably an allusion to barley, a primary ingredient in the production of beer and whisky. It is a popular but unproven story that the expression refers to the state of being intoxicated, with the grain itself performing the metaphorical bite. No further historical record or specific coinage is provided.
- 01
a little bit of bread and no cheese
Used to represent the song of the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella).
- 02
barn find
A valuable item recovered from poor storage, such as a suburban garage, farm shed, etc., where it had been more or less forgotten; especially a vintage automobile.
- 03
bits and bobs
A random assortment of things; small remaining pieces and items.
- 04
born in a barn
In a past tense: criticizing the person to whom the phrase is directed for inappropriately, and usually neglectingly, leaving an exterior door or window open, considered ill-mannered.
- 05
champ at the bit
To show impatience or frustration when delayed.
- 06
dust mouse
A dust bunny.
- 07
every bit
Exactly, to its full degree
- 08
not be able to hit the broad side of a barn
To have very poor aim, such as while using firearms or in sports.
Last updated August 10, 2026