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- be in a lather
be in a lather
be in a lather
To be very nervous, distressed, or upset. Sam is in a lather because she doesn't think her job interview went well. I told mom that we'll get there on time, but she's still in a lather about us leaving behind schedule.
be in a lather
(informal) to be very anxious about something She was in a real lather when I left this morning because she couldn't find the tickets. (informal)