pull in your horns

The phrase "pull in your horns" is an idiomatic expression that means to become more cautious, reserved, or humble in one's behavior or actions. It is often used to describe someone who has been acting aggressively or proudly but then decides to take a step back and adopt a more subdued or controlled approach. The phrase originates from the behavior of certain animals, like bulls, which retract their horns as a defensive or submissive gesture.