Avoir le vent en poupe

Sometimes translated as to have the wind in your sails or to be on a roll, “avoir le vent en poupe” describes a successful person or something on the road to success. 

Where does this expression come from?

It dates back to the 16th century.

 The “poupe” is the stern of a ship. Sailors have always been happy to have the wind at the stern, which makes their ship to move forward easily.

Figuratively speaking, “the wind at the stern” has taken on the meaning of a favourable fate that pushes us towards success. By extension, it now refers to the success of a company or a person.