apron-string
Noun: A string used to tie an apron, but primarily used in figurative expressions to denote a state of excessive dependence or control, especially in domestic relationships.
- (He is excessively dependent on his mother.)
- (The husband is overly controlled by his wife.)
"to be tied to (someone's) apron-string": to be under the complete control or influence of another person, typically a mother or wife, implying a lack of independence.
- The young man was so tied to his wife's apron-string that he couldn't even choose his own clothes. (He was completely dependent on her decisions.)
"to be pinned to (someone's) apron-string": a variation of the same idiom, emphasizing a closer, more restrictive attachment.
- Despite being an adult, he remained pinned to his mother's apron-string. (He never gained independence from his mother.)
Apron-string hold (n): a metaphorical grip of control or influence.
- Her apron-string hold on her son prevented him from moving abroad. (Her controlling influence stopped him.)
Apron-string tenure (n): a period of time spent under someone's domestic authority.
- His apron-string tenure lasted well into his thirties. (He remained dependent for many years.)
- Dependence: a state of relying on someone for support or control.
- Subservience: an attitude of yielding to another's authority.
- Domination: the exercise of control over someone.
Under someone's thumb: completely controlled by someone.
- He is under his wife's thumb, just like being tied to her apron-string. (He is entirely under her control.)
Tied to someone's coattails: dependent on another person's success or influence.
- He advanced in his career tied to his boss's coattails, much like an apron-string attachment. (He relied on his boss for progress.)
- Cut the apron-string: to break free from someone's control or influence.
- He finally cut the apron-string and moved out of his parents' house. (He became independent.)