apron strings: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFigurative, idiomatic, slightly formal/dated
Quick answer
What does “apron strings” mean?
Literally, the strings used to tie an apron around the waist. Figuratively, a symbol of maternal or domestic authority, protection, and control.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Literally, the strings used to tie an apron around the waist. Figuratively, a symbol of maternal or domestic authority, protection, and control.
Used metaphorically to describe excessive dependence on or control by a mother or parental figure, often implying a lack of independence or autonomy in an adult.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Identical in meaning. No significant lexical or grammatical differences.
Connotations
Slightly more likely to be used in a historical or literary context. The imagery is equally understood.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but perhaps marginally more residual usage in BrE due to older idiomatic patterns.
Grammar
How to Use “apron strings” in a Sentence
[be] tied to/bound by/held by SB's apron strings[Verb] (cut/sever/escape) SB's apron stringsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “apron strings” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He finally managed to sever her apron strings and move abroad.
- She felt she was still apron-stringed to her family's expectations.
American English
- He needs to cut those apron strings and get his own apartment.
- They accused him of being apron-stringed to his mother's fortune.
adjective
British English
- His apron-string existence was the subject of village gossip.
- She rejected his apron-string proposal, knowing his mother would control everything.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Could be used metaphorically to describe a junior partner or company overly dependent on a larger, older parent company.
Academic
Used in psychology, sociology, or literary analysis to discuss dependency, autonomy, and family dynamics.
Everyday
Used in conversation to critically describe an adult (often a man) who is excessively influenced by his mother.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “apron strings”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “apron strings”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “apron strings”
- Using 'apron strings' to mean general financial dependence (it's specifically maternal/domestic influence).
- Saying 'apron's strings' (the possessive 's' is not standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Historically and most commonly, yes, it's used for men ('mother's apron strings'). However, it can be applied to anyone, regardless of gender, in a context of excessive parental dependence.
It's very rare. The idiom is firmly rooted in the domestic, nurturing (and controlling) image of the mother/apron. Dependence on a father would typically use different metaphors (e.g., 'under his thumb', 'living in his shadow').
It is judgmental and critical, often used pejoratively. It can be offensive to the person it describes, as it implies infantilization and weakness.
To 'cut (or sever) the apron strings'. This means to assert one's independence and break free from maternal control.
Literally, the strings used to tie an apron around the waist. Figuratively, a symbol of maternal or domestic authority, protection, and control.
Apron strings is usually figurative, idiomatic, slightly formal/dated in register.
Apron strings: in British English it is pronounced /ˈeɪ.prən ˌstrɪŋz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈeɪ.prən ˌstrɪŋz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(be) tied to one's mother's apron strings”
- “cut the apron strings”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an adult still physically tied by strings to their mother's apron, unable to walk away – a powerful image of lack of freedom.
Conceptual Metaphor
DEPENDENCE IS PHYSICAL ATTACHMENT / CONTROL IS A PHYSICAL BOND.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary connotation of the phrase 'tied to apron strings'?