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Get Wind of

Get Wind of.

English
idiom

Find out about something that was meant to be kept secret.

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What it means...

To hear about or learn of something, especially something secret or not yet official.

When you get wind of something, the information reaches you informally, often before it's publicly announced.

It implies being in the loop ahead of others.

Use it when…

  • When an employee hears about upcoming changes through informal channels
  • When a competitor finds out about a new product before the launch
  • When someone discovers a surprise that was meant to be kept secret

Don’t confuse with...

Wrong icon

"Come Across"

To find or encounter something by chance — not necessarily something private or secret

Wrong icon

"Catch on"

To begin to understand what's happening — about comprehension, not information

Correct icon

"Get Wind of"

Learning about something — usually secret or unofficial — through informal means

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Get Wind of" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Corporate Issues

The press got wind of the merger before the official announcement and ran the story early.

Relationships & Social Life

Gossip / Talking About Others

She got wind of the surprise party and had to pretend she didn't know.

Media & Everyday Life

News

The investigation got wind of the deal through an anonymous tip.

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Get Wind of" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Meetings

Colleague

Did you get wind of the restructuring?

You

I heard something — but let's wait for the official word before reacting.

Relationships

Talking to friend

You

Don't let anyone get wind of this before we're ready to announce it.

Friend

Don't worry — I won't say a word.

Everyday Conversations

Storytelling

Friend

How did he find out?

You

He got wind of it through someone in accounting. These things always leak.

Last updated:
April 20, 2026

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