rub salt in the wound
To aggravate or exacerbate a physical or emotional injury.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Don't rub salt in the wound by talking about his mistake.”
“She lost the race, and his constant comments about her slow time only rubbed salt in the wound.”
“After the company fired him, they sent a letter criticizing his performance, which served only to rub salt in the wound.”
Derived from the stinging sensation of salt being applied to an open, bleeding wound. The practice was a deliberate act, intended to increase the physical discomfort of the injury.
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Attic salt
Pointed and delicate wit.
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covenant of salt
A long-lasting agreement.
- 03
lick one's wounds
To withdraw temporarily while recovering from a defeat; to recuperate.
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not worth salt
Worthless.
- 05
old salt
A seasoned sailor, especially one who is hardy and forthright in manner.
- 06
put a band-aid on a bullet wound
To inadequately treat a serious situation.
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reopen old wounds
To cause the memory of past trauma to be recalled, resulting in renewed suffering.
- 08
rub down
To rub from top to bottom, e.g. for cleaning, stripping paint or massage.
Last updated August 10, 2026