The team circled the wagons when the boss criticized their work.
circle the wagons
idiomTo prepare to defend against an attack or criticism.
Origin
disputed originFrom the practice of drawing the wagons of a wagon-train into a circle to protect against attack, and also to keep cattle and other livestock within.
When the newspaper started asking difficult questions, the company executives circled the wagons to protect their reputation.
Facing intense scrutiny from the public, the political party circled the wagons, refusing to comment until they had a unified defense.
- 01
circle back
To return to a previous location or state; to come back to.
- 02
circle the drain
To be in a rapid decline or in a state of downfall, especially as leading to an inevitable utter failure or destruction.
- 03
come full circle
To make a complete change or reform.
- 04
full circle
Through a cycle of transition, returning to where one started after gaining experience or exploring other things.
- 05
inner circle
The group comprising one's closest friends or associates.
- 06
swing round the circle
To make a complete circuit.
- 07
virtuous circle
A situation in which the solution to one problem makes each future problem easier to solve than the original one.