fling (one's) bonnet over the windmill



fling (one's) bonnet over the windmill

To act in a deranged, reckless, or unconventional manner. Refers to the eponymous character of the novel Don Quixote, who tosses his hat over a windmill (which he imagines is a giant) as a challenge to it. Sarah is always trying to buck social conventions, flinging her bonnet over the windmill whenever possible. I know you like to take risks in business, but don't fling your bonnet over the windmill.
See also: bonnet, fling, windmill

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
RadomiŁrah-DAW-meewPolish
Bernardinaber-nahr-DEE-nahItalian
Zabel-Armenian
Radim-Czech
Giuliettajoo-LYET-tahItalian
Ariaden[æri'ædni]