Be Still My Heart Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 4, 2024 by Liam Daniel

“Be still my heart” is a common idiom that you might hear in daily conversation. This reference will help you understand what the phrase means, its origins, and provide examples of how it’s used. Additionally, you’ll learn alternative expressions that convey a similar sentiment.

Be Still My Heart Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “be still my heart” is an expression used to convey excitement, surprise, or admiration, often when someone is emotionally overwhelmed by something, such as love, beauty, or a moment of joy.
Be Still My Heart
Be Still My Heart – Created by 7ESL

Be Still My Heart Meaning

The phrase “be still my heart” is used by a person during conversation or speech to express that they are very overwhelmed by something that is has been said or done, typically in response to a romantic gesture. It is saying that the action is literally making their heart beat fast. In modern times, it is typically said sarcastically in response to an action that the speaker thinks is boring or not interesting.

Examples:

  • “When I saw the surprise party my friends threw for me, I thought, ‘be still my heart!’ I was so touched!”
  • “She walked into the room wearing that stunning dress, and I couldn’t help but think, ‘be still my heart!'”

Origin of This Idiom

The beginning of this phrase can be tracked back to the year 1697 when it was first used by author John Dryden. Back then the phrase used was “my beating heart.” This phrase was used frequently over the course of many years by poets and novelist alike in romantic stories and poetry. In 1705, the entire phrase “be still, my beating heart” was used by author William Mountfort. It was first used as a sarcastic and funny expression by playwrights Gilbert and Sullivan in 1878. Gradually over the years the phrase has been reduced to “be still my heart.”

Usage of “Be Still My Heart”

  • In a romantic context:

“When he surprised me with flowers and a love letter, I could only think, ‘Be still my heart!'”

  • Expressing admiration:

“That sunset over the mountains is so breathtaking—be still my heart!”

  • Reacting to an exciting moment:

“When I saw the engagement ring, I thought, ‘Be still my heart, it’s beautiful!'”

  • In a humorous or dramatic tone:

“She brought me my favorite dessert. Be still my heart, I’m in heaven!”

Related Terms to “Be Still My Heart”

Here are some related terms and phrases to “be still my heart” that convey similar feelings of emotional intensity, often related to love, admiration, or overwhelming emotion:

  • Heart skip a beat – experiencing a sudden rush of excitement or emotion.
  • Take my breath away – being so impressed or amazed that one feels speechless.
  • Overwhelmed with emotion – feeling a strong surge of feelings, often love or joy.
  • Love at first sight – the instant feeling of love or attraction upon first seeing someone.
  • Falling head over heels – falling deeply in love or infatuated with someone.
  • Aching heart – feeling deep emotional pain, often due to love or longing.
  • Butterflies in my stomach – feeling nervous or excited, especially in romantic situations.
  • Swoon – to faint or feel weak with extreme emotion, often related to love or admiration.
  • Captivated – being completely fascinated or charmed by someone or something.

Other Ways to Say the Term

There are many other ways to say “be still my heart.” Some of them include: oh my gosh, oh my goodness, I’m so excited, my heart just skipped a beat.

“Be Still My Heart” synonyms list:

  • Oh my gosh
  • My god
  • Oh dear
  • OMG
  • Oh my goodness
  • Oh my
  • I’m so excited
  • Oh Jesus
  • My heart just skipped a beat

“Be Still My Heart” Examples

Examples in Statements

A news caster narrating a televised high speed chase on the freeway.

  • “Oh, be still my heart, he just crashed into the middle barrier!”

A sports caster commentating an exciting football game.

  • “Be still my heart! I can’t believe he just kicked that field goal from 65 yards out and won the game!”

Examples in Conversation

An example conversation between a husband and wife.

  • Husband: Do you remember what day it is today?
  • Wife: How could I forget?! It’s our 20th wedding anniversary!
  • Husband: It certainly is and here are these 20 roses just for you, one for every year we have been married.
  • Wife: Oh! Be still my heart! You are so sweet!

An example conversation between a son and his mom.

  • Son: I wanted to ask Gretchen to the prom, but I don’t know how to do it.
  • Mother: Well, I am sure you will think of a memorable way to ask her.
  • Son: Well, I was thinking about taking her to the beach and having one of the airplanes tow a sign that says “Gretchen, will you go to prom with me?”
  • Mother: Be still my beating heart! That is so romantic! She would love that!
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