fling (one's) hat over the windmill



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

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Georgettezhor-ZHETFrench
Lorettalə-RET-ə (English), lo-RET-tah (Italian)English, Italian
Tinashe-Southern African, Shona
PilviPEEL-veeFinnish
Leutwin-Ancient Germanic
Zelimkhan-Chechen