sprout wings
sprout wings {v. phr.}
1. To enter the stage after a period of development when wings appear (said of larvae that turn into butterflies).
The dragonflies suddenly sprouted wings and are flying all about in the park.
2. To become good and virtuous (as if airborne).
Joe has helped many colleagues in need; he seems to have sprouted wings.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms