turning tail

Leaving due to cowardice.

Picture a mongrel putting its tail between its legs and peeing all over it and yelping, ki-yi, ki-yi, ki-yi off into the distance.

by Downstrike May 27, 2004

turn tail

to run away in fear (and run is often added although this essentially makes it redundant)

Don't turn tail when you have a huge turnout like that.

by The Rerturn of Light Joker September 21, 2008