How Do You Spell APRON STRINGS?

Pronunciation: [ˈe͡ɪpɹən stɹˈɪŋz] (IPA)

The phrase "apron strings" refers to the ties or strings that are used to fasten an apron around one's waist. Despite how it sounds when spoken, the word "apron" is actually spelled with an initial "a" rather than an "e" as in "apern." Similarly, the "s" in "strings" is pronounced as a /z/ sound rather than the letter "s." The IPA phonetic transcription for "apron strings" is /ˈeɪprən strɪŋz/. So, the next time you refer to the ties of an apron, remember to spell it "apron strings" and pronounce it as /ˈeɪprən strɪŋz/.

APRON STRINGS Meaning and Definition

1. Apron strings refer to the metaphorical ties or bonds that denote a close, dependent, and sometimes controlling relationship, typically between a parent and a child, or even between two individuals. This expression draws its origin from the literal term "apron string," which refers to the string or tie attached to an apron, usually worn by women, to keep it firmly in place around the waist.

   In the figurative sense, apron strings represent the emotional, psychological, and sometimes financial support offered by one person to another, often resulting in an excessive degree of dependence or reliance. It commonly implies a situation where a person, particularly a child or a spouse, is heavily influenced or controlled by their parent or partner, leading to a lack of independence or personal agency. The symbolism suggests that the person under the influence of these metaphorical apron strings is like a child under the constant guidance and monitoring of a parent.

   This expression can also reflect the reluctance or hesitance to separate oneself from a familiar and secure source of support or comfort. It highlights the challenge one faces when attempting to break free from the emotional or physical sheltering provided by another individual, often used in the context of personal growth, maturation, or asserting one's own identity.

   In summary, apron strings can denote a relationship characterized by dependence, control, or an unwillingness to break away from a person or situation offering guidance or support. It serves as a metaphorical representation of the emotional attachments and influences that tie individuals together, usually with an emphasis on a dominant-subordinate dynamic.

Common Misspellings for APRON STRINGS

• zpron strings
• spron strings
• wpron strings
• qpron strings
• aoron strings
• alron strings
• a-ron strings
• a0ron strings
• apeon strings
• apdon strings
• apfon strings
• apton strings
• ap5on strings
• ap4on strings
• aprin strings
• aprkn strings
• aprln strings
• aprpn strings
• apr0n strings

Etymology of APRON STRINGS

The term "apron strings" refers to the strings or ties that are used to fasten an apron around the waist. In the figurative sense, it is often used to describe someone who is overly dependent on another person or excessively controlled by someone else.

The etymology of the phrase "apron strings" is believed to originate from the Middle English word "napron" which means a small or protective cloth worn over the front of the body. Over time, the "n" in "a napron" was misinterpreted as "an apron", thus creating the word we commonly use today.

The expression "tied to someone's apron strings" likely emerged from the idea of a child being tied to their mother's apron strings for protection and guidance. It implies a dependence on the person who holds the metaphorical strings, suggesting a lack of autonomy or independence.

Idioms with the word APRON STRINGS

• tied to apron strings The idiom "tied to apron strings" refers to someone, usually a grown adult, who is excessively dependent on or controlled by their mother or a maternal figure. It suggests that the person is unable or unwilling to be independent and make decisions without the guidance or approval of their mother.
• cut the apron strings The idiom "cut the apron strings" means to become independent, typically when referring to a person who has been overly reliant on someone else, such as a parent or guardian. It signifies breaking away from dependence, taking responsibility, and becoming self-sufficient or emancipated.
• tied to one's mother's apron strings The idiom "tied to one's mother's apron strings" refers to a person, typically an adult, who is overly dependent or influenced by their mother. It implies that the individual lacks independence and relies heavily on their mother for guidance, decision-making, or emotional support.
• be tied to mother's apron strings The idiom "be tied to mother's apron strings" means to be overly dependent or controlled by one's mother, typically used to describe an individual, usually an adult, who has difficulty making decisions or taking actions independently due to an excessively close relationship with their mother.
• be tied to (one's) mother's apron strings To be tied to one's mother's apron strings means to be excessively dependent on one's mother or to have an over-reliance on her guidance, protection, or authority. It suggests an inability to act independently or make decisions without the help or approval of one's mother.
• be tied to your mother's apron strings The idiom "be tied to your mother's apron strings" refers to a person, usually an adult, who is excessively dependent or reliant on their mother or female guardian. It implies that the person lacks independence and is unable to make decisions or take actions without the guidance or approval of their mother.
• tied to (someone's) apron strings The idiom "tied to (someone's) apron strings" refers to a person, typically an adult, who is excessively dependent on someone else, usually a parent or a partner. The phrase suggests that the individual is unable to make decisions or act independently, symbolically implying that they are metaphorically tied to the apron strings of the other person. It implies a lack of autonomy and self-reliance.
• be tied to something's apron strings The idiom "be tied to something's apron strings" refers to being overly dependent on someone or something, particularly when it comes to decision-making or taking actions. It implies a lack of independence or autonomy, as if one is metaphorically attached to another person or entity, similar to a child being tied to the apron strings of their mother.
• (tied to) somebody’s apron strings The idiom "(tied to) somebody’s apron strings" refers to someone who is excessively dependent on another person, especially someone of authority or a parent. It suggests that the person being described lacks independence and relies heavily on the guidance, control, or influence of the other individual, as symbolized by being metaphorically tied to the strings of their apron.
• tied to mother's apron strings The idiom "tied to mother's apron strings" refers to someone, usually an adult, who is excessively dependent on their mother and finds it challenging to separate or make decisions without her involvement or approval. It suggests a lack of independence or self-reliance.
• loosen the apron strings The idiom "loosen the apron strings" means to allow someone, usually a child or dependent, more independence and freedom to make their own decisions and take care of themselves. It suggests the act of gradually reducing parental control and involvement in the person's life.
• tied to his mother's apron strings The idiom "tied to his mother's apron strings" refers to a person, typically a man, who is excessively dependent on or controlled by his mother. It suggests that an individual is unwilling or unable to make decisions or act independently without the guidance or approval of their mother.
• your mother's, wife's, etc. apron strings The idiom "your mother's, wife's, etc. apron strings" refers to someone being excessively dependent or controlled by their mother, wife, or another influential person, often indicating a lack of independence or autonomy. It suggests that the person's decision-making and actions are heavily influenced or determined by someone else, as if they were still tied to their mother's or wife's apron strings, symbolizing a metaphorical attachment to a person's authority.
• tied to your mother's/wife's apron strings The idiom "tied to your mother's/wife's apron strings" refers to someone, typically a man, who is excessively dependent on their mother or wife for guidance, support, or decision-making. It implies a lack of independence and an inability to act or think for oneself. The phrase suggests that the person in question is metaphorically tied or attached to their mother's or wife's apron strings, emphasizing their reliance on these women.
• apron strings The idiom "apron strings" refers to the close emotional attachment or dependence that someone, usually a child, has on their parent or caregiver. It suggests a situation where the person is overly reliant on someone else for support or guidance.

Similar spelling word for APRON STRINGS

• apron string.