Silver spoon

Meaning

The idiom "silver spoon" refers to a person who has been born into wealth or privilege, and who is expected to continue living that way throughout their life. It implies that these individuals have never had to experience the hardships of poverty or work for what they want in life. The term comes from the idea that wealthy parents may give their children silver spoons instead of regular ones, signaling their status and wealth.

Usage

• "Despite being born into a silver spoon, he worked hard to achieve his dreams." - This sentence implies that while the person may have had financial privilege, they still had to work hard to achieve their goals.
• "She was raised with a silver spoon in her mouth and has never experienced struggle in her life." - This sentence indicates that the person grew up in wealth and has never had to face any difficulties.
• "The company's management team consists of people born into silver spoons who don't understand the struggles of their employees." - This sentence highlights how some wealthy individuals may not be aware of the hardships faced by others.
• "He may have been born with a silver spoon, but his work ethic and dedication are what got him where he is today." - This sentence suggests that while the person may have had financial privilege, their success was also due to their hard work.
• "It's not fair that some people are born with silver spoons while others struggle to make ends meet." - This sentence implies that there is an inherent unfairness in the way wealth and privilege are distributed in society.

Roots and History

The term "silver spoon" dates back to the 18th century, when wealthy families would often give their children silver spoons as christening presents. Silver spoons were seen as a symbol of status and wealth, as they were expensive and durable. The phrase "born with a silver spoon in one's mouth" became popular in the early 20th century and was used to describe people who had been born into wealth or privilege. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has remained relatively consistent, but its usage has varied depending on the context. It can be used to describe someone who has been born into wealth, as well as someone who has inherited a business or other resources. However, it is important to note that not all people born into wealth are entitled to success, and there are many factors that contribute to a person's achievements in life.

Synonyms in English

• "Golden spoon" - This idiom refers to someone who has been born into wealth or privilege, just like "silver spoon."
• "Heir apparent" - This term refers to someone who is expected to inherit a position of power or authority, often in a business or government.
• "Born on the wrong side of the tracks" - This idiom describes someone who has been born into poverty or disadvantage and is struggling to overcome it.
• "The lucky few" - This phrase refers to a small group of people who have been fortunate enough to achieve success in life, often due to their privilege or connections.
• "The 1%" - This term describes the wealthy elite, who constitute a small percentage of the population and are often seen as having more power and influence than the rest of us.

Synonyms in other languages

• French - "Les bornés" - This idiom refers to someone who has been born into wealth or privilege and is expected to continue living that way throughout their life.
• Spanish - "Los nacidos en oro" - This phrase translates to "those born in gold," and describes people who have been born into wealth.
• German - "Die Goldenen Zungen" - This idiom refers to someone who has been born into privilege and has access to resources and opportunities that others do not.
• Italian - "I nasciuti in perla" - This phrase translates to "those born in pearls," and describes people who have been born into wealth.
• Russian - "Рожденные из серебряных кубков" - This idiom refers to someone who has been born into wealth and is expected to continue living that way throughout their life.

Similar Idioms

• bigger fish to fry

• sleep on

• shed light