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Region: General | Usage example: He let his guard down once he trusted the team.

Let your guard down

Meaning

Relax and stop being defensive.

Usage

Used when people become vulnerable after being cautious.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Boxing metaphor for dropping protective stance.

Used broadly in relationships and negotiations since the early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Let your hair down

Relax and enjoy oneself.

Lower your guard

Relax your vigilance.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.