To "get in someone's hair" is an idiomatic expression used to describe an annoyance or irritation caused by someone's continuous interference, meddling, or interruption in one's personal or professional affairs. When someone gets in another person's hair, they are consistently hindered, bothered, or disturbed by their unwanted presence or actions.
The phrase often suggests a sense of intrusion or invasion into another person's personal space or matters. It can also refer to someone excessively demanding attention, making it difficult for the other person to concentrate, work, or relax. The interference may manifest in various forms, such as constant questioning, excessive advice-giving, persistent nagging, or always needing assistance.
The expression can be applied to any context where someone's behavior disrupts and irritates another person, ranging from familial relationships to work environments. It conveys a feeling of frustration and desire for relief from the bothersome individual.
Although the origin of this expression is unclear, it likely alludes to the unwanted feeling of having someone's hair touch one's face or body, which can be irritating and distracting. The phrase emphasizes the intrusiveness and discomfort caused by someone who is unceasingly intrusive, often implying the need for space and boundaries to be respected.
