# bit by a barn mouse

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/bit-by-a-barn-mouse
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

tipsy; slightly drunk

## Examples

- 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.

## 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. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.