She set her cap at the new neighbor.
set one's cap at
idiomTo choose a man as a potential husband (for a girl).
Origin
disputed originProbably a calque of French mettre le cap sur (“to set a course for”).
Everyone noticed how she set her cap at the wealthy visitor during the summer dance.
Determined to secure her future, the young woman set her cap at the eligible bachelor despite his cold reputation.
- 01
abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
- 07
air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.