circle the wagons

Definition

Adopting a defensive posture against external threats, inspired by pioneers who probably didn't actually do this but makes corporate defensiveness sound frontier-tough.

Example Usage

After the scandal broke, leadership circled the wagons and stopped returning media calls.

Origin

American Western frontier mythology, adopted as business metaphor in the 20th century

Fun Fact

Historians note that wagon circling was rare in actual frontier travel, but common in Hollywood westerns and corporate crisis management.

Source: Crisis management and defensive strategy terminology

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Circle Back

The corporate equivalent of saying "I'm absolutely never going to address this again but I want you to feel heard right now." A phrase that has killed more action items than any layoff in history.

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Something another company did once that worked and has now become an unquestionable commandment carved in corporate stone. The adult version of "but mom, everyone else is doing it."

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blackball

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chinguacousy

Derogatory Term... Don't say it...