Region: General | Usage example: The competitors' strong case took the wind out of their sails.

Take the wind out of your sails

Meaning

Deflate someone's momentum or confidence.

Used when describing sudden discouragement.

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Sailing phrase about losing progress when wind dies.

Nautical writing from the 18th century included the imagery.