whistle

[nesquer]

what does whistle down the wind mean

[BAZZA100]

I think it means doing or being something ineffectual

[Quizmonster]

Nowadays, it means to dismiss or abandon. The term comes from falconry. When the huntsman released the bird, he headed it against the wind, but - once turned loose - it flew with the wind. The whistle was a signal from the hunter to direct the bird.