Drive someone up the wall
/draɪv ˈsʌmwʌn ʌp ðə wɔːl/informalUK · US
What does “Drive someone up the wall” mean?
Drive someone up the wall means to annoy or frustrate someone intensely.
A dripping tap, repeated interruptions or a neighbour's loud music can drive you up the wall. The phrase often describes irritation that builds up over time.
It's usually an exaggeration. “You're driving me up the wall” can be playful between friends, but it can also sound genuinely angry.
When do people say it?
Use it informally about an irritating habit, repeated noise or frustrating situation.
“The alarm that keeps beeping next door is driving me up the wall.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The phrase imagines being so annoyed that you could climb the walls. It is an exaggerated picture of frustration.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Drive someone up the wall” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Fly off the handle, Suddenly lose your temper.
- The last straw, The final problem that makes someone give up.
Last updated 2026-09-16