hang out to dry

== English == === Pronunciation === === Verb === hang out to dry (third-person singular simple present hangs out to dry, present participle hanging out to dry, simple past and past participle hung out to dry) (transitive, idiomatic) To abandon someone who is in need or in danger, especially a colleague or one dependent. Synonym: leave someone hanging Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see hang,‎ out,‎ dry. ==== Usage notes ==== Often carries an element of betrayal of someone who might have expected protection or assistance. The phrase paints a vivid picture of isolation and vulnerability. Journalists might use the term to describe public figures or entities that have been abandoned by their allies or supporters. ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== twist in the wind hang out leave someone high and dry throw under the bus