Where “Gutful” Comes From
“A gutful” is more than enough of something. Green’s Dictionary of Slang defines “gutsful” (also “gutful”) as “quite as much of anything as one wants or cares to take”, often in “have a gutful”, and marks it as originally Australian and New Zealand. It comes from “gut” plus “full”.
Its earliest dated use in Green’s is from 1904, in the Sydney Sportsman: “I could ’a’ ’ad a square gutful if I’d a liked.” Today it’s the usual way to say you’re fed up.
Source:
“I’ve had a gutful of this wet weather.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
Use it when you’re tired of a situation: the weather, a long wait or a workmate’s complaints.
In Real Life
“I’ve had a gutful” is a very Australian way to say you’re fed up. People say it about the weather, the traffic, a neighbour’s noise or a boss’s decision. It suggests a build-up of annoyance that has finally become too much. You’ll also hear “I’ve had a belly full” and “I’ve had it up to here” for the same idea.
Quick Questions
Is gutful rude?
No. It’s casual and common, though it can sound blunt.
What’s the difference between a gutful and a bellyful?
They mean the same thing. Both mean you’ve had more than enough of something.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: GUT-fool.
In conversation:
- I’ve had a gutful of his complaining.
- She’d had a gutful and walked out.
- I’ve got a gutful of this traffic.
Good to know: You’ll usually hear it as “had a gutful” or “got a gutful”.
See also: Spit the dummy, Shirty
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