Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

turn-tail

verb
/ˈtɜrn teɪl/
Definition
To retreat or run away, especially in the face of danger or adversity.
Examples
  • Feeling outmatched, the soldier decided to turn-tail and flee the battlefield.
  • When the storm approached, the hikers had no choice but to turn-tail and head back to their camp.
Meaning
This phrase is often used to describe someone who abandons a situation, usually because they are scared or overwhelmed.
Synonyms
  • Retreat
  • Flee
  • Run away
  • Back down