🌬️ Get Wind of It: Detecting Rumors and Gaining Knowledge 🕵️
Unpacking the Cliché
“To get wind of” something means to discover or become aware of a rumor, secret, or piece of information. This expression conjures the imagery of intriguing scents on the breeze reaching one’s nose, much like hints or whispers of knowledge reach our ears. Its roots harken back to about the year 1800, evidenced by its presence in B. H. Malkin’s translation of “Gil Blas” (1809): “The corregidor . . . got wind of our correspondence.”
Synonyms:
- Catch wind of
- Hear about
- Snoop
- Spy out
- Get a hint of
Antonyms:
- Overlook
- Ignore
- Miss
- Conceal
Related Phrases and Idioms
- “Heard it through the grapevine”: Learning about something informally or through gossip.
- “Smell a rat”: To discern that something is not quite right.
- “Put two and two together”: To figure something out based on the available clues.
- “Eavesdrop”: To secretly listen to a conversation.
Humor-Filled Quotes and Proverbs
“I always get wind of things right after everyone else does.” – Anonymous Gossiper
“A rumor without a leg to stand on will get around some other way.” – John Tudor
Dive Deeper with These Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Books: “The Rumor” by Elin Hilderbrand, “Rumors: A Luxe Novel” by Anna Godbersen
- Songs: “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye, “Rumor Has It” by Adele
- Poetry: “Gossip” by William Makepeace Thackeray
- Movies: “Rumor Has It” (2005), “Gossip” (2000)
Quizzes
Here’s to the next time you “catch wind” of something interesting. Stay curious, keep your senses sharp, and always be on the lookout for those delightful rumors breezing your way.
Stay windy, Sydney Snoopington
