The spelling of the word "sock away" is based on its pronunciation in American English. The IPA phonetic transcription of this phrase is /sɑk əˈweɪ/. The word "sock" is pronounced with the short "o" sound, followed by the "k" sound. The word "away" is pronounced with the "uh" vowel sound, followed by the "w" and the long "a" sound. When combined, the phrase "sock away" means to save or put away for later. Its spelling reflects its phonetic pronunciation, making it easy to read and spell correctly.
The idiom "sock away" is a colloquial expression used to describe the act of saving or setting aside money or resources for a specific purpose, usually for future use or emergencies. The term originated from the idea of storing something valuable in a secure place, like a sock drawer, to ensure its preservation.
When one "socks away" money, they are actively putting it aside, just as one would place a valuable item in a sock for safekeeping. This expression implies a sense of diligence and discipline in managing finances, suggesting a conscious effort to accumulate savings over time.
The action of "socking away" typically involves saving or investing a portion of one's income regularly, aiming to build a financial safety net or achieve long-term financial goals. It can also refer to accumulating assets or resources for a specific purpose, such as buying a house, starting a business, or funding education.
Moreover, "socking away" can extend beyond financial matters, encompassing the act of reserving or setting aside time, energy, or other resources for future use or personal growth. It implies the intention to secure and allocate resources wisely, prioritizing long-term benefits over immediate gratification.
Overall, "sock away" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the idea of actively and consistently saving or preserving resources for a later purpose, be it financial or otherwise.
The etymology of the phrase "sock away" can be understood by examining the origin and evolution of its constituent words.
1. Sock: The word "sock" originated in Old English as "socc", which referred to a light shoe or slipper. Over time, it came to specifically denote a knitted or woven covering for the foot or ankle. The term "sock away" uses "sock" in a figurative sense, meaning to store or save something, similar to how one might store items in a sock.
2. Away: In this context, "away" functions as an adverb that indicates an action or movement is directed elsewhere or to a distance. It emphasizes the idea of putting something aside or storing it for later use.