# turn tail

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/turn-tail
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To turn away from someone or something, in preparation for running away; to reverse direction; to leave or flee.

## Examples

- The dog turned tail and ran when it saw the cat.
- When the angry crowd started shouting, the coward turned tail and fled the scene immediately.
- Realizing that his argument had no merit and his support was fading, the politician turned tail and retreated from the debate stage before the final vote.

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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.