cross with

[DaSwede]

What's the origin of the phrase 'cross with', as in "She was cross with us for [doing whatever]" ?

I tried to google for it, but all I found out is that Rembrandt was cross-eyed, which is of course exciting news, but...

Thanks in advance, personal thanks later on.

[heathfield]

Found it on Google here

[DaSwede]

I think I wanted the explanation to be more gothic or ritualistic - "Don't cross me" sounds like something a vampire might say, doesn't it.

But your explanation makes sense, heathfield, so thanks!

[jno]

someone once told me that the word cross is only used by women. Obviously that's not entirely true, but there's something in it... it's a fairly gentle word, not as strong as angry, irate, furious... a mother might be 'cross' with her child

[DaSwede]

jno: Gentle - and a little like this...?

[jno]

quite right, Swede, you might be cross with him for not shining his shoes but you could never get furious with him...

Surprised to hear about Rembrandt, though!