Here's a breakdown of the meaning:
* Sowing: This refers to planting seeds, which is a metaphor for the actions a person takes.
* Wild Oats: These are wild and unrestrained, representing impulsive or carefree behavior.
* His: The "his" implies that this behavior is most commonly attributed to men, though it can apply to anyone.
Essentially, it means someone is enjoying a period of freedom and experimentation before taking on the responsibilities of adulthood. This can include things like:
* Traveling and exploring
* Engaging in casual relationships
* Trying different careers
* Living a carefree lifestyle
The idiom often carries a sense of understanding that this period of wildness is a natural part of growing up, and that eventually, the person will "settle down."
Examples:
* "He's just sowing his wild oats, he'll come around eventually."
* "She's been traveling the world, sowing her wild oats before starting a family."
Note: This idiom can be seen as slightly outdated and sometimes carries a negative connotation, implying that such behavior is frivolous or irresponsible.