To "put one's tail between one's legs" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of displaying a gesture of submission, defeat, or humiliation. It originates from the animal kingdom, specifically dogs and other animals that have tails. When a dog or other such animal feels ashamed, scared, or submissive, it tucks its tail down between its hind legs, thereby visually indicating its state of defeat or submissiveness.
Metaphorically, this expression is used to describe a person's reaction when they are overcome by a sense of shame, embarrassment, or defeat. It signifies one's loss of confidence or pride and their willingness to submit or apologize for a wrong action or decision. It often conveys a sense of remorse or admission of error, where the person is willing to accept blame or responsibility for a particular situation or mistake.
The idiomatic phrase "puts tail between legs" is commonly used in everyday conversations, literature, and even journalism to vividly portray someone's retreat from a confrontation or their acknowledgment of being in the wrong. It can also signify someone's retreat or withdrawal from a challenging situation or their surrender to a dominant force.
Overall, this expression encapsulates the visual metaphor of a fearful or submissive animal tucking its tail between its legs, serving as a powerful way to convey the emotions of shame, defeat, submission, or remorse in human behavior.
