show the white feather

1. Display cowardice, as in The minute Bob put up his fists, Bill showed the white feather and backed down. This expression comes from cockfighting, where a white feather in a bird's tail is considered a sign of inferior breeding. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

On the other hand, they frequently win, and it would be foolish to show the white feather until he knows a little more about the hands of his adversaries.

From Project Gutenberg

The Iron Boy, however, possessed too much grit to show the white feather.

From Project Gutenberg

This isn't the time to show the white feather.

From Project Gutenberg

He could not, therefore, afford to show the white feather, and though he hesitated, it was not for long.

From Project Gutenberg

Would you have me show the white feather now, when so many have been kidnapped?

From Project Gutenberg