Take a Shower: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
September 26, 2023

To "take a shower" literally means to wash oneself in a shower. It can also figuratively mean calming down or cooling off when angry or aroused.

In short:

  • It means wash oneself in a shower.
  • It can also mean to calm down when angry.

What Does "Take a Shower" Mean?

The idiom "take a shower" has two meanings depending on the context of a sentence.

  • As a literal expression, "take a shower" means to clean oneself in a shower, a device that sprays water over the body. People usually take showers in the morning or after exercising to refresh themselves and remove dirt and sweat.
  • As a figurative expression, to "take a shower" means to calm down or cool off when feeling angry or aroused. This is based on the idea that cold water can reduce solid emotions or impulses.

Where Does "Take a Shower" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "take a shower" is unclear, but it may have something to do with the history of showers as an invention. Through the years, the symbolic meaning of "take a shower" has emerged from the association of showers with cold water, which was believed to have therapeutic effects on the body and mind.

Historical Example

One of the earliest examples of the figurative use of "take a shower" can be found in the novel The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, published in 1951. In this book, the protagonist Holden Caulfield says:

"I felt so lonesome all of a sudden. I almost wished I was dead. I figured I'd go downstairs and see what everybody was doing. Maybe take one of those cold showers that are supposed to be good for you."

10 Examples of "Take a Shower" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

  • Oh, snap. He forgot to take a shower after his workout.
  • He took a shower at home to wash off the dirt and sweat.
  • Pro tip: You should take a shower if you feel sick or feverish.
  • Yaas! She wants to take a shower in the morning to wake up.
  • She didn't take a shower for three days when she was camping.
  • No worries. You can take a shower in my bathroom if you want.
  • He likes to take a shower before going to bed. It's his daily grind.
  • He decided to take a shower instead of a bath on our evening out.
  • No mean feat, but they always take a shower together to save water.
  • She had to take a shower at the gym because her water was cut off.

Examples of "Take A Shower" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom appeared in various forms of popular culture:

  • In the movie Psycho (1960), one of the most famous scenes is when Marion Crane is stabbed to death while "taking a shower" in a motel. This scene is considered one of the film's most iconic and influential.
  • In the TV show Friends (1994-2004), one of the recurring jokes is that the character Joey Tribbiani often "takes long showers" and uses all the hot water. In one episode, he says: "I like to take long showers. I mean, like, really long. Sometimes, I even write stuff on the walls.
  • In the song Shower (2014) by Becky G, the chorus goes: "I'm dancing in the mirror and singing in the shower / La la la la la la la / Singing in the shower / La la la la la la la / Singing in the shower." The song is about having a crush on someone and thinking about them all the time.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Take a Shower"

  • Rinse off
  • Freshen up
  • Have a wash
  • Hit the showers

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Take a Shower"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

  • What does "take a shower" mean?

To "take a shower" literally means to wash oneself in a shower. It can also figuratively mean calming down or cooling off when angry or aroused.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "take a shower"?

The origin of the idiom "take a shower" is unclear, but it may have something to do with the history of showers as an invention. Through the years, the symbolic meaning of "take a shower" has emerged from the association of showers with cold water, which was believed to have therapeutic effects on the body and mind.

  • Is "taking a shower" better than "taking a bath"?

This depends on your personal preferences and needs. Taking a shower and taking a bath both have advantages and disadvantages.

  • How often should you "take a shower"?

This question has no definitive answer, as it depends on various factors, such as personal preference, lifestyle, climate, health, and culture.

  • How do you say "take a shower" in other languages?

In Spanish, you can say "tomar una ducha" or "ducharse"
In French, you can say "prendre une douche" or "se doucher"
In German, you can say "eine Dusche nehmen" or "sich duschen"

  • What are some idioms related to "take a shower"?

Some idioms that are related to "take a shower" are "throw cold water on something," "come clean," and "make a splash."

  • How long should you "take a shower"?

It depends on personal preference and circumstances, but some general recommendations are 5-10 minutes to clean yourself effectively and efficiently. You may also take a shorter shower if you want to save water and energy or if you have low water pressure or a limited hot water supply. On the other hand, you may take a more extended shower if you want to relax, enjoy the water, or treat yourself.

  • What are the benefits of taking a cold shower?

It improves immunity and metabolism by stimulating the production of white blood and brown fat cells. Furthermore, it enhances mood and alertness by releasing endorphins and adrenaline. Moreover, it reduces inflammation and pain by constricting blood vessels and numbing nerve endings. Lastly, it promotes skin and hair health by tightening pores and cuticles and preventing dryness and frizz.

  • What are the benefits of taking a hot shower?

It relaxes muscles and joints by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery. It can also ease congestion and cough by loosening mucus and phlegm. Plus, it cleanses pores and wounds by opening them up and flushing out bacteria and dirt. Lastly, it induces sleepiness and relaxation by raising body temperature and serotonin levels.

  • What are some tips for taking a better shower?

Use mild soap or cleanser that suits your skin type and needs. You can also exfoliate your skin once or twice weekly to remove dead skin cells and improve texture. Another tip is moisturizing your skin after showering to lock in hydration and prevent dryness. You may also adjust the water temperature and pressure according to your preference and comfort. Lastly, keep your shower clean and tidy to prevent mold, mildew, and clogs.

Final Thoughts About "Take a Shower"

"Taking a shower" is a common and vital activity affecting your body and mind.

To summarize, here are some basic facts about this idiom:

  • It means to wash oneself in a shower.
  • It can be used in different sentences to express different contexts and situations.
  • Its origin may be related to the history of showers as an invention, therapy, or punishment.
  • It has appeared in various forms of popular culture, such as movies, TV shows, songs, and books.
  • It has synonyms and related expressions that can be used depending on the context of the sentence.

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