To keep someone under one's thumb means to exert control or dominance over them, ensuring their obedience or submission. This idiom is often used to describe a situation where an individual has a strong influence or power over someone else, holding them firmly in their grasp.
The phrase "keep under thumb" typically implies a high level of control, manipulation, or dependency. It suggests that the person being controlled is constantly monitored, restricted, or influenced by the dominating individual. This control can be exerted through various means, such as psychological manipulation, threats, or exploiting vulnerabilities.
When someone keeps another person under their thumb, they often dictate their actions, decisions, or behavior, leaving little room for independence or autonomy. The controlled individual may feel trapped or unable to express their own thoughts, desires, or opinions freely.
Furthermore, the phrase signifies a power dynamic in which the dominant party actively ensures that the other person is dependent on them. This control may extend to various aspects of the individual's life, including personal, professional, or emotional aspects.
In summary, "keeping someone under thumb" refers to the exercise of authority, control, or manipulation over another person's actions and decisions, establishing a relationship where the controlling party maintains a dominant position while limiting the other person's agency and freedom.
