apron string

Thân thiện

A child tugs on their mother's apron strings while she bakes.

Definition

Noun (usually used in the plural: apron strings) 1. A literal cord or string used to fasten an apron around a person's waist. 2. A metaphorical symbol of excessive control, dependence, or close attachment, typically referring to the influence of a mother or a parental figure over someone (often a man).

Usage

The term is almost exclusively used in its plural form, "apron strings." It is commonly found in the idiom "tied to (someone's) apron strings," which describes a person, especially an adult, who is excessively controlled by or dependent on another, usually their mother.

Examples

• Literal Meaning:
  • She untied her apron strings after finishing the baking.
• Figurative/Idiomatic Meaning:
  • He's a grown man but still seems tied to his mother's apron strings.
  • She needed to cut the apron strings and live independently.

Advanced Usage

• "To be tied to (someone's) apron strings": To be under the excessive control or influence of someone, preventing independence.
  • The CEO's son was promoted, but many felt he was still tied to his father's apron strings.
• "To cut the apron strings": To break free from someone's controlling influence and become independent.
  • Moving to another city was her way of finally cutting the apron strings.

Variants and Related Words

• Apron-string tenure (Historical/Legal): A rare, archaic term referring to a type of property tenure controlled by a wife or mother.
• Apron-string hold: A less common variant describing a controlling influence.

Synonyms

• Control
• Dominance
• Dependence
• Influence

Related Idioms

• "Under (someone's) thumb": Similar to being controlled by someone.
• "Wrapped around (someone's) little finger": To be completely controlled by someone.

Học thuật

Noun

1. (usually used in the plural) a cord used to tie an apron at the waist