The word "breadwinning" is spelled as [bred-wi-ning]. The IPA phonetic transcription breaks down the word into its constituent sounds. The first syllable "bred" is pronounced as /brɛd/ which is the short E sound followed by the D sound. The second syllable "wi" is pronounced as /wi/ which is the W sound followed by the long E sound. Finally, the last syllable "ning" is pronounced as /nɪŋ/ which is the N sound followed by the IH sound and the NG sound. The word "breadwinning" refers to the act of providing for one's family.
Breadwinning is a noun that refers to the act of providing financial support for one's family or household. It is typically associated with the main or primary earner of a family who is responsible for generating income to meet the financial needs of the household. The term "breadwinning" originated from the traditional notion that the main source of sustenance for a family is the bread earned by the primary breadwinner.
Being the breadwinner often involves working full-time or having a reliable source of income that is sufficient to cover expenses such as housing, bills, food, education, and other necessities. The role of breadwinning has traditionally been assumed by men due to societal expectations, but with changing gender dynamics, women are also actively engaged in breadwinning roles today.
Breadwinning encompasses the responsibility and commitment required to fulfill the financial obligations towards one's family. It can involve various forms of employment, such as a salaried job, self-employment, or any means of generating income. The concept of breadwinning recognizes the crucial role of financial stability in the well-being and quality of life for a family.
While breadwinning primarily emphasizes the monetary aspect of supporting a family, it can also encompass emotional support and involvement in familial obligations. It signifies the act of shouldering the responsibility to ensure the economic welfare and security of one's household.
The word "breadwinning" is formed using the root word "breadwinner", which originated in the 1820s. The term "breadwinner" combines "bread" and "winner", indicating the person who secures their family's sustenance or "wins the bread" by providing financial support. The word "bread" in this context refers to food or money for the family's basic needs. The concept of "winning" implies obtaining or acquiring, highlighting the active role played by the individual in earning income for their household. Therefore, "breadwinning" is derived from the notion of being the one who earns money or sustenance to support others.