Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—W

Wing, Wings

Wing of a house, wing of an army, wing of a battalion or squadron, etc., are the side-pieces which start from the main body, as the wings of birds.

Don't try to fly without wings.
Attempt nothing you are not fit for. A French proverb. On the wing. Au vol, about to leave.

To clip one's wings.
To take down one's conceit; to hamper one's action. In French, Rogner les ailes [à quelqu'un].

To lend wings.
To spur one's speed.

“This sound of danger lent me wings.”

R. L. Stevenson.

To take one under your wing. To patronise and protect. The allusion is to a hen gathering her chicks under her wing.

To take wing.
To fly away; to depart without warning. (French, s'envoler.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Wings of Azrael
Winfrith
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