give someone their head
idiomTo allow (someone) to act without constraint: to give (someone) free rein.
Origin
disputed originFrom horse racing: to allow a horse freedom of movement of its head.
- 01
as if someone owns the place
Alternative form of like someone owns the place.
- 02
bang one's head against a brick wall
To waste effort on a futile project.
- 03
bang some heads together
Attempt to get results from a previously ineffectual or argumentative group, typically by coercion or force.
- 04
bash someone's head
To beat up someone violently.
- 05
beat someone round the ears
To beat (a person) with blows about the head.
- 06
big head
An inflated ego, an exaggerated belief in one's own importance.
- 07
bite someone's head off
To severely berate someone.
- 08
bless someone with
To give or bestow, as a gift from God.
Last updated April 17, 2026