2. (pugilistic).—To give way: as, china flies in the baking.
1865. G. F. Berkeley, My Life, II. 296. Heenan … told me his right hand was worth nothing to him, and we have since seen that his left flies, or, in other words, becomes puffed, softened, or severely damaged by the force of his own blows.
To fly around, verb. phr. (American).—To bestir oneself; to make haste. Also to fly around and tear one’s shirt.
1851. Hooper, Widow Rugby’s Husband, p. 44. Old ’ooman, fly around, git somethin’ for the Squire and Dick to eat.
To fly the flag, verb. phr. (colloquial).—1. To walk the streets.
2. (vulgar).—To experience the menstrual flux.
See also Flag.
To fly high (or rather high).—1. verb. phr. (common).—To get, or be drunk. For synonyms, see Drinks and Screwed.
2. (colloquial).—To keep the best company, maintain the best appearances, and affect the best aims: i.e., to be a High-flier (q.v.). Also, to venture for the biggest stakes in the biggest way.
To fly low, verb. phr. (colloquial).—To make as little of oneself as possible; to sing small (q.v.); and (among thieves) to keep out of the way when wanted (q.v.).