# stiff upper lip

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/stiff-upper-lip
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The quality of being resolute and showing self-restraint, stereotypically associated with the British; especially as keep a stiff upper lip.

## Examples

- 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.

## Origin

Despite its current association with British stoicism, the phrase is of American origin, with the earliest known use occurring in 1811.

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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.