Idioms

raise the wind

raise the wind

obsolete To raise the money to fund some project or activity. Primarily heard in UK. He's been seeking investors to raise the wind for his proposed textile business.
See also: raise, wind
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

raise the wind

obtain money for a purpose. British
When it first entered the language in medieval times, this phrase referred to the belief that spirits or witches were able to cause the winds to blow in order to help or hinder ships; the figurative use dates from the late 18th century.
See also: raise, wind
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
See also:
References in classic literature
Whatever some people may think, I am very certain it is in the power of witches to raise the wind whenever they please.
As it was, our bonnets were so unbecoming, and the mills were so occupied in trying to raise the wind, that I never had even a flirtation with anybody.
Our grandmothers threw their caps over the mills, of course, but, by Jove, their granddaughters only throw their caps over mills that can raise the wind for them.
No, we must raise the wind to-night and re-open your account first thing to-morrow.
Margaret Thatcher tried to endear us to private health, but the majority of us couldn't raise the wind.
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