TURNS COAT Meaning and
Definition
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"Turns coat" is an idiomatic expression primarily used to describe a person who changes their allegiance or loyalties abruptly and usually for personal gain or advantage. The term can be traced back to the traditional image of a coat with two contrasting colors, symbolizing opposing sides or factions. To "turn coat" thus refers to the act of metaphorically turning one's coat inside out to reveal a different color and switch one's allegiance.
This phrase often carries a negative connotation and is used to describe individuals who betray a previous allegiance, cause, or group they were associated with to align themselves with the opposing side. The primary motive behind such a switch is often self-interest or seeking personal benefits, which may include financial gains, power, or protection from negative consequences.
"Turn coat" typically implies a lack of trustworthiness, as individuals who turn coats are often seen as disloyal, opportunistic, or unprincipled. Their actions can have significant repercussions, as they may provide classified information, expose internal strategies, or undermine the values or goals of the group they previously belonged to.
In summary, "turns coat" refers to the act of changing one's allegiance, often motivated by personal gain, and is often accompanied by a negative perception of disloyalty and untrustworthiness.
Common Misspellings for TURNS COAT
- rurns coat
- furns coat
- gurns coat
- yurns coat
- 6urns coat
- 5urns coat
- tyrns coat
- thrns coat
- tjrns coat
- tirns coat
- t8rns coat
- t7rns coat
- tuens coat
- tudns coat
- tufns coat
- tutns coat
- tu5ns coat
- tu4ns coat
- turbs coat
- turms coat
Etymology of TURNS COAT
The phrase "turns coat" is derived from the Middle English word "turnen" (to turn) combined with the Old French word "cote" (coat). In the context of betraying one's allegiance or switching sides, the term initially referred to the act of literally turning one's coat inside out to display a different color or emblem, symbolizing a change in loyalty. Over time, "turns coat" evolved to become an idiom meaning someone who changes their allegiances or betrays a cause or group.
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