Possible Origins:
* Physical deformation: The phrase might have originated from the literal idea of something being bent or deformed, perhaps referring to a physical object or a person's posture after a stressful event. This could be linked to the idea of someone being "stressed out" or "upset."
* Woodworking: Historically, woodworking was a common craft, and bending wood into specific shapes was a crucial skill. Perhaps the idiom stemmed from the concept of wood becoming unusable if it was bent beyond its natural shape. This could metaphorically relate to someone being "ruined" by an emotional experience.
* Metaphorical extension: The phrase may have been a metaphorical extension of other expressions involving physical deformation, such as "twisting someone's words" or "being out of line."
Development and Usage:
* Early usage: While the exact date of the first recorded instance is unclear, the idiom appeared in print as early as the 19th century, gaining popularity throughout the 20th century.
* Informal language: "Bent out of shape" is primarily used in informal speech and writing. It's often associated with situations where someone is expressing strong emotion, particularly anger, frustration, or upset.
* Variations: The idiom has several variations, such as "get bent out of shape," "be bent out of shape," and "all bent out of shape." These variations demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of the idiom in different contexts.
Conclusion:
While the exact origin of "bent out of shape" is unclear, it likely arose from a combination of literal and metaphorical interpretations. The idiom's popularity stemmed from its ease of use, its ability to convey a range of emotional states, and its adaptability to various situations.