turn one's coat
The phrase "turn one's coat" originates from a historical practice where changing the outward appearance of a coat signified a change in loyalty or allegiance.
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Definition
C1General
(idiomatic)To switch allegiance or loyalty, often viewed as disloyal or opportunistic.
Example
- He turned his coat when he joined the rival company after years of loyalty.
- Politicians often turn their coats to align with the winning side.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "turn one's coat":
change one's tuneturn one's backturn againstchange of tackchange tackjump shipcross the floorcross the aisleturn overturn abouton the turntake a turn