The idiom "take the starch out of" means to weaken or reduce someone's confidence, authority, or power. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is humbled or put in their place.
For example, if a boss is always bossy and demanding, but then a coworker stands up to them and challenges their authority, it could "take the starch out of" the boss. This means that the boss's confidence and power have been reduced, and they may be less demanding in the future.
The origin of this idiom comes from the process of starching clothes. When clothes are starched, they become stiff and rigid. However, if the starch is removed, the clothes become limp and less impressive. Similarly, when someone's confidence or power is "taken out," they become less impressive and less intimidating.
Overall, the idiom "take the starch out of" is used to describe situations where someone's power or confidence is reduced, often in a humbling way.
• The team's early lead in the game took the starch out of their opponents, and they eventually won the match.
• The company's recent financial losses have taken the starch out of the CEO, who is now considering drastic measures to save the company.
• The loud bang took the starch out of the little girl, and she started crying.
• After being rejected by several publishers, the writer was a bit discouraged, but the encouraging words from his mentor took the starch out of him.
• After years of hard work and dedication, the sudden betrayal of his business partner took the starch out of him, and he decided to retire.
• The unexpected news of her father's illness took the starch out of her, and she had to take a break from work to take care of him.