get wind: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘get wind’ mean?
The idiom get wind means to become aware of or receive information about something, often through unofficial or secret means.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "which way the wind is blowing" means to be aware of current trends or popular opinions in order to adapt or make decisions accordingly.
The idiom "in the wind" means to feel or sense that something is about to happen or change, often referring to a situation that is not yet fully known or understood.
The idiom "go with the wind" means to be unpredictable or easily swayed by circumstances, lacking firmness or commitment.
The idiom "gone with the wind" means to disappear or be completely lost, often without any trace or indication of where or how it happened.
One of the most iconic idioms in the English language is "gone with the wind." The origin of this idiomatic expression can be traced back to Margaret Mitchell's 1936 novel, "Gone with the Wind," which was later adapted into a highly successful film in 1939.
The idiom "get wind of" means to hear or learn about something, often through rumors or indirect sources. It implies becoming aware of information that was previously unknown or secret.
The idiom "get wind in one's jaws" means to talk excessively or for a long time about something, often without substance or relevance.
The idiom "get wet" means to be exposed to or experience something new or unfamiliar, often in a difficult or challenging way. It implies facing a novel situation that may be uncomfortable or outside one's comfort zone.
"Get the word out" is an idiomatic phrase that means to spread information or news to a larger audience or group of people.
The idiom "get the wind up" means to become scared or anxious about something. It originated from the idea of sailors feeling anxious when the wind was against them and making it difficult for their ship to sail. This phrase is often used in informal contexts to express a sense of fear or uneasiness.
The idiom "get the point" means to understand or grasp the main idea or message being conveyed.
Unveiling the Enigma
The idiom "get wind" is a commonly used expression in English that means to become aware or informed about something, usually news or information that was previously unknown. It has been in use since at least the 18th century, as seen in literary works from that era.
One theory suggests that the origin of "get wind" may be rooted in the world of sailing, where sailors relied on wind as a vital source of information. Getting wind of impending weather conditions or changes in wind patterns was crucial for their navigation and safety. Over time, this nautical usage of "getting wind" may have transitioned into a figurative expression for gathering information or becoming aware of something.
Another possible origin of "get wind" relates to the sense of smell. Historically, people often relied on their sense of smell to detect certain things. In this context, "get wind" could have been used metaphorically to mean catching a whiff of something or gaining knowledge through a scent or aroma.
While the exact origin of "get wind" remains unclear, the idiom has firmly established itself in the English language. It is commonly used in various contexts, both formal and informal, to convey the act of acquiring information or becoming aware of something.
"get wind of" is a related idiomatic expression that means to hear or learn about something, often a rumor or secret, before it is widely known. It further emphasizes the act of becoming aware or informed.
"in the wind" is another related idiom that conveys the idea of something being in the air or on the horizon. It can refer to a sense of anticipation or a feeling that change or something significant is about to happen.
"get wind" is a well-established idiom with its origin still open to interpretation. Theories suggest connections to sailing and the sense of smell. Regardless of its exact etymology, "get wind" has become a widely used expression in English, conveying the act of acquiring information or becoming aware. It is often used in conjunction with related idioms such as "get wind of" and "in the wind", further emphasizing the idea of gaining knowledge or anticipating change.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "get wind" can be used in a sentence:
- I don't want my parents to get wind of my plans to go on a road trip.
- News travels fast in this small town, so if you don't want anyone to get wind of your secret, be careful who you tell.
- The government tried to cover up the scandal, but eventually, the media got wind of it and exposed the truth.
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