E. Cobham Brewer 18101897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Fling.
I must have a fling at Throw a stone at something. To attack with words, especially sarcastically. To make a haphazard venture. Allusion is to hurling stones from slings.
1
To have his fling. To live on the loose for a time. To fling about his time and money like ducks and drakes.
2
If he is young, he desires to have his fling before he is compelled to settle downNineteenth Century (February, 1892, p. 208).