fling (one's) cap over the windmill



fling (one's) cap 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 cap over the windmill whenever possible. I know you like to take risks in business, but don't fling your cap over the windmill.
See also: cap, fling, windmill

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
StÉPhanieste-fa-NEEFrench
IngemarING-e-mahrSwedish
Nazarius-Late Roman
Prokopyprah-KO-peeRussian
Gudbrand-Norwegian, Danish
Zena['zi:nə]