Crossword Genius

Irritated, flying three sheets to the wind (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

uptight

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'irritated' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for uptight that I've seen before include "Showing repressed anxiety or anger" , "Repressed and disapproving" , "Like a tense person" , "Tense or angry" , "Tip thug, being nervously tense" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.