pin-money
Definition
- Noun (uncountable, informal):
- A small, regular allowance of money: Historically, "pin-money" refers to a sum of money given to a woman (especially a wife or daughter) for personal expenses, such as buying clothing or small luxuries. The term originated from the practice of giving money for pins, which were essential but inexpensive items in earlier centuries.
Usage Examples
- (The small allowance she received for personal purchases.)
- (A historical context of the term.)
Advanced Usage
- "pin-money" as a metaphor for a small, supplementary income: In modern usage, the term can refer to any small amount of money earned or set aside for incidental expenses.
- She earns a little pin-money from selling handmade crafts online. (A secondary, small income for personal use.)
Variants and Related Words
Pin (n): a small, thin piece of metal used for fastening or decoration.
- She used a pin to secure her dress. (The object from which the term "pin-money" historically derived.)
Money (n): a medium of exchange in the form of coins and banknotes.
- He saved his money for a new bicycle. (The general concept of currency.)
Synonyms
- Allowance: a fixed amount of money given regularly.
- Pocket money: a small amount of money for personal expenses (often used for children, but similar in concept).
Related Idioms
- "Pin money" (idiomatic): used to describe a small, trivial sum of money.
- The bonus was just pin money to her, not a life-changing amount. (A minor, insignificant financial gain.)
Historical Note
The term "pin-money" dates from the 16th–17th centuries when pins were expensive and considered a luxury. Husbands would give their wives a special allowance to buy pins, which later generalized to any small personal spending money.