turn tail

== English == === Etymology === (This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.) === Pronunciation === === Verb === turn tail (third-person singular simple present turns tail, present participle turning tail, simple past and past participle turned tail) (idiomatic) To turn away from someone or something, in preparation for running away; to reverse direction; to leave or flee. Synonym: turn on one's heel ==== Usage notes ==== Often used to suggest fearfulness, cowardliness, or unwillingness to face a challenge or a responsibility. ==== Translations ==== === Anagrams === rutilant