# the feathers fly

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/the-feathers-fly
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An argument or fight is instigated.

## Examples

- 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.

## 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. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.