The expression "get wind of" means to hear about something, usually in a casual or informal manner. Phonetically, this phrase can be written as /ɡɛt wɪnd ʌv/. The "g" in "get" is pronounced like the "g" in "go", while the "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "bet". The "w" in "wind" is pronounced like the "w" in "wow", and the "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "sit". The vowel in "of" is pronounced like the "u" in "up".
"Get wind of" is an idiomatic expression or informal phrasal verb that refers to acquiring or becoming aware of information, news, or knowledge about a particular matter or event. It is often used to convey the idea of learning or discovering something that was previously unknown or secret.
This phrase can be understood to mean "to hear about" or "to find out about." It suggests that the information has reached one's attention, indicating that someone has divulged or leaked the details. The phrase "get wind of" carries an implication that the information may have been obtained in an indirect or undisclosed manner.
The word "wind" in this context metaphorically refers to the movement of air and signifies how news or information travels or spreads unpredictably. It suggests that the information has caught one's attention, much like the scent carried by the wind catches someone's nose. The word "get" denotes the action of receiving or obtaining the information, implying that it has been acquired passively as opposed to actively seeking it out.
For example, one might say, "I got wind of the upcoming merger through a confidential source." This means that the speaker learned about the merger from an undisclosed or secret informant, indicating that the information was not made public.