turn tail
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"The alien's would turn tail and head back to Mars."
From BBC ● Jul. 30, 2026
Instead, the player nicknamed “The Alien” puts a forcefield around the basket—making would-be attackers turn tail and run away.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 2, 2026
The backlash became so intense that even Mr. Musk’s most strident supporters seemed to turn tail.
From New York Times ● Dec. 18, 2022
But when those lizards meet a predator who is not intimidated by their act, they turn tail and run.
From Salon ● Aug. 9, 2022
All I could do was turn tail like the yeller dog and head for the house, yelling for Mama.
From "Old Yeller" by Fred Gipson
