Any endeavor which fails in an awe-inspiring or spectacular manner. Origin of phrase taken from old
WW1 movies where
the Red Baron shoots down an opposing French or British
biplane fighter, which then spirals down out of control, trailing a long streamer of flame and smoke from burning fuel.
Did you see Joe trying to
hit up that hot chick at the club last night? She took one look at his
geeky 70's clothes, haircut, and nerdy glasses, and shot him down in flames without even opening her mouth to say a word!
