get under someone's skin

1. Irritate someone, as in She really knows how to get under my skin with her nagging . This expression no doubt alludes to burrowing or stinging insects that cause itching or similar skin irritations. [Late 1800s]

2. Obsess someone or affect someone's deep feelings, as in Jean's really gotten under his skin; he misses her terribly . Cole Porter used this sense in his love song, “I've Got You Under My Skin” (1936).

Example Sentences

He is a 5-foot-8 ball of energy who can sway to the beat, get under someone's skin and cause cold sweats.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

I mean, really it's one extra thing you do to get under someone's skin.

Read more on Newsweek