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
Chen-Chinese
Cassandrakə-SAN-drə (English), kə-SAHN-drə (English), kahs-SAHN-drah (Italian)English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, German, Greek Mythology (Latinized)
Chinyere-Western African, Igbo
EfraÍN-Spanish
Steafan-Scottish
Anatol-Polish