clip one's wings

/klˈɪp wˈɒnz wˈɪŋz/

/klˈɪp wˈʌnz wˈɪŋz/

[phrase]

to clip one's wings

[PHRASE]

to reduce or restrain a person's freedom, influence, or authority

What is the origin of the idiom "clip someone's wings" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "clip someone's wings" can be traced back to the practice of clipping the wings of birds, particularly domesticated birds like chickens or pigeons, to prevent them from flying away. This physical act of trimming the feathers of a bird's wings limits their ability to fly freely and keep them within a confined space. It can be used in personal relationships, particularly in instances of controlling or oppressive behavior, where one person seeks to restrict the actions, choices, or opportunities of another.

Examples

1. It’s also why it’s interesting that one of the teasers for The Last of Us 2 includes a leader using short-hand slang to meter out internal justice "Clip her wings."

2. And Papa says, you know, pain has a way of clipping your wings so that you forget you were ever created to fly.

3. Why were they already at the outset here, sort of clipping his wings, telling him what style not to write in?

4. Thank you to my father for not clipping my wings and for letting me fly.