stiff upper lip
The quality of being resolute and showing self-restraint, stereotypically associated with the British; especially as keep a stiff upper lip.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Try to keep a stiff upper lip during the difficult meeting.”
“Even though the news was disappointing, he kept a stiff upper lip and finished his presentation.”
“Despite the mounting pressures of the crisis, the leader maintained a stiff upper lip, projecting an air of calm resolve to the anxious public.”
first recorded 19th c.
Despite its current association with British stoicism, the phrase is of American origin, with the earliest known use occurring in 1811.
- 01
bite one's lip
To forcibly prevent oneself from speaking, especially in order to avoid saying something inappropriate or likely to cause a dispute.
- 02
button one's lip
To remain silent, especially in order to keep a secret or to avoid saying something inappropriate.
- 03
fat lip
A swelling on the lip, especially one resulting from a punch or other blow.
- 04
give lip
To speak to someone rudely or without respect.
- 05
keep one's lips sealed
To keep quiet; to keep a secret; to not tell.
- 06
lip service
Promising but empty talk; words without action or intention.
- 07
loose lip
The practice or characteristic of being overly talkative, especially with respect to inadvertently revealing information which is private or confidential.
- 08
loosen someone's lips
To cause one to speak more freely; to cause one to discuss a subject that would not usually be discussed.
Last updated August 10, 2026