the feathers fly
An argument or fight is instigated.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“If you mention politics at dinner, watch the feathers fly.”
“When the two managers started arguing about the budget, everyone knew the feathers would fly.”
“As soon as the controversial topic was raised during the board meeting, the feathers flew and the discussion quickly descended into chaos.”
disputed origin
Probably from the physical reality of birds in combat, during which feathers may be dislodged and take flight. The idiom translates the chaotic dispersal of plumage into a description of human altercation, though the specific moment of its arrival in English is not recorded.
- 01
birds of a feather
People having similar characters, backgrounds, interests, or beliefs.
- 02
birds of a feather flock together
People of similar character, background or taste tend to congregate or associate with one another; it is easier to establish friendships with people that one has a lot in common with.
- 03
feather in one's cap
An accomplishment; particularly one that is flaunted or boasted of.
- 04
feather one's nest
To achieve benefits, especially financial ones, by taking advantage of the opportunities with which one is presented; to amass a comfortable amount of personal wealth; especially, to do so to a degree that involves venality.
- 05
feathered friend
A bird.
- 06
feathered oof-bird
Any large, plentiful source or supplier of money.
- 07
fine feathers make fine birds
Something that appears beautiful or good is by definition beautiful or good.
- 08
fly blind
To do by guesswork; to feel one's way.
Last updated August 10, 2026