kid glove
/'kid'glʌv/
Definition
- Noun:
- A glove made of fine soft leather (as kidskin): A "kid glove" is a type of glove traditionally made from the soft, supple leather of a young goat (kid). It is known for its delicate texture and quality.
Usage
- The term "kid glove" is most commonly used in its plural form, "kid gloves," within the idiomatic phrase "to handle/treat someone/something with kid gloves." This idiom means to treat a person or situation with extreme care, delicacy, or tact, often because they are sensitive, fragile, or easily offended. The imagery comes from the delicate nature of the gloves themselves.
Examples
- Noun:
- She wore a pair of elegant white kid gloves to the formal event.
- The antique dealer handled the fragile vase with kid gloves. (This uses the idiomatic sense.)
- Idiomatic Usage:
- The manager handled the disgruntled employee with kid gloves to avoid further conflict.
- This diplomatic issue must be treated with kid gloves.
Advanced Usage
- The idiom "with kid gloves" is an adverbial phrase. It is almost never used in a literal sense in modern everyday language. Its primary function is figurative, describing a manner of careful, gentle, and considerate action.
Variants and Related Words
- Kid-glove (adjective, often hyphenated): Used attributively to describe an approach or treatment that is very careful and delicate.
- He adopted a kid-glove approach when dealing with the new client's concerns.
Synonyms
- Carefully
- Delicately
- Gently
- Tactfully
Related Idioms
- To handle with care: A more direct phrase with a similar meaning, though it lacks the connotation of refined tact implied by "kid gloves."
- To walk on eggshells: This idiom emphasizes the need for extreme caution to avoid causing trouble or offense, often due to a volatile situation or person. It can be synonymous but carries a stronger sense of anxiety and potential danger.
Noun
-
a glove made of fine soft leather (as kidskin)
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