English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Household name
Meaning
The idiom "household name" refers to a brand, product, or service that is very well-known and commonly recognized by people within a household or family unit. It suggests that the entity has become so familiar that it is almost like part of the household itself. The phrase can also be used more broadly to refer to someone or something that is widely known and respected within a particular community or society.
Usage
- This company's products are household names, meaning that they are commonly used by people all over the world.
- My grandparents always had Nestle chocolate bars in their house, so it was like a household name to me growing up.
- The news of my neighbor's successful business spread quickly and soon became a household name in our community.
- Some people consider Oprah Winfrey a household name due to her popularity and influence on television.
- My friend is an amazing musician, but he struggles to make a living from his art because it's not yet a household name.
Roots and History
The term "household" has been in use since the 13th century, referring to the group of people living together in a particular dwelling or home. The idea of certain brands, products, or services becoming so well-known that they are considered part of the household has been around for much longer than this phrase itself, however. The idiom likely emerged as a way to describe brands and products that were so widely recognized that they were almost like family members to many people.
Synonyms in English
- Brand name
- Common household item
- Trusted family brand
- Familiar family product
- Recognizable family service
Synonyms in other languages
- French: Nom de famille (literally, "family name")
- German: Familienmarke (literally, "family mark")
- Spanish: Marca familiar (literally, "familiar brand")
- Italian: Marcha familiare (literally, "family market")
- Japanese: 家庭の名前 (literally, "family name")