Squandered, as a big lead

BLOWN

Like a candle in the wind, this word describes a lost advantage.

"Squandered, as a big lead" hints at losing something you once had—like a team blowing a huge advantage in a game. The word "blown" fits because it’s slang for wasting an opportunity (think "they blew their lead"). It also plays on the literal meaning of "blown" as something carried away by wind, reinforcing the idea of losing control. The answer is straightforward once you connect the sports or competitive context.