in high dudgeon in a state of deep resentment.

☞ The origin of dudgeon in the sense of 'ill humour' is unknown, and it is almost always found in this phrase. However, other adjectives are sometimes used instead of high, for example deep or great.

1938Zane GreyRaiders of the Spanish Peaks Neale left in high dudgeon to take his case to his court of appeal-his mother.