Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
Abandon a failing enterprise before it is too late. For example, After seeing the company’s financial statement, he knew it was time to desert a sinking ship. This metaphoric expression alludes to rats, which leave a vessel when it founders in a storm or runs aground so as to escape drowning. It was transferred to human behavior by about 1600.
Fat Cats Pet Rats Desert Sinking Ship of Fools | Tallbloke’s Talkshop
The Irascible Curmudgeon: Nat MPs desert the sinking ship as the
MARTELLY RATS DESERT SINKING SHIP. MARTELLY TEAM HEADS FOR MIAMI
In business also be prepared for the rats who desert a sinking ship
Rats desert sinking ship | Editorial Cartoons by Niall O Loughlin