To fly the coop
This plumage-inspired expression winds us back to the days when barnyard fowl weren’t just the stars of your Sunday roast. Originating in America around 1900, it paints a vivid picture of a clever critter (likely a chicken) escaping its confined life for newfound freedom! First clucked into literary fame by O. Henry in “The Enchanted Profile” (1909), this phrase now flutters comfortably in the coop of quotidian speech.
Synonyms and Similar Terms:
- Bolt: To run away suddenly.
- Escape: To break free from confinement.
- Flee: To run away, typically from danger.
- Vamoose: To leave hurriedly.
Antonyms:
- Stay: To remain in the same place.
- Remain: To stay or continue in the same position.
- Linger: To stay longer than necessary.
Humor-Filled Quotes & Sayings:
“You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few escapists.”
“Hens escaping results in fewer breakfast delicacies!”
Thought-Provoking Proverbs:
“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush—unless you’re the one flying out of the coop.”
References in Literature and Media:
- Books: “The Enchanted Profile” by O. Henry
- Books: “Saturday the Rabbi Went Hungry” by Harry Kemelman
- Movies: “Chicken Run” (2000) - A fabulous claymation riot about fowl escape artists!
- Music: “Fly Away” by Lenny Kravitz captures the exhilarating rush of cutting loose and fleeing for freedom.
Related Expressions:
- Head for the hills: Another expression indicating a speedy escape.
- Make a break for it: Indicates a dash towards freedom or safety.
- Beat it: Simply put, to make a hasty retreat.
Fictitious Author: W. T. Fleefoot
Publishing Date: 2023-10-10
“May you always find the courage to spread your wings and escape the mundane. Don’t be afraid to fly the coop every once in a while!” 🕊️
