money spider: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Folklore
Quick answer
What does “money spider” mean?
A very small spider, typically of the family Linyphiidae, often found in houses and gardens.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very small spider, typically of the family Linyphiidae, often found in houses and gardens.
In British folklore, a money spider is considered a sign of good luck, particularly that money is coming your way, if it lands on you.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term and its associated superstition are common in British and Irish English. In American English, the same small spiders exist but are not typically called 'money spiders' and the superstition is largely unknown.
Connotations
In British English, it connotes a harmless, possibly lucky creature. In American English, if the term is used at all, it is likely a direct borrowing without the cultural connotations.
Frequency
Common in UK folklore and casual conversation; very rare to non-existent in general American usage.
Grammar
How to Use “money spider” in a Sentence
A money spider landed on [person/object].According to folklore, a money spider brings [good luck/money].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rarely used outside of cultural or folklore studies.
Everyday
Used in casual conversation, especially when one is seen.
Technical
Not used; arachnologists use family or species names.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “money spider”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “money spider”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “money spider”
- Using it to refer to any small spider (it's specific to certain families).
- Assuming the superstition is known globally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, money spiders are tiny and harmless to humans.
It is common in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
In folklore, you should let it crawl on you for good luck, or gently blow it away while making a wish.
No, it is a common name based on folklore. Scientists use taxonomic names like 'Linyphiidae'.
A very small spider, typically of the family Linyphiidae, often found in houses and gardens.
Money spider is usually informal, folklore in register.
Money spider: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmʌni ˌspaɪdə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmʌni ˌspaɪdər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A money spider on you means money is coming.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a tiny spider weaving a web that looks like a coin.
Conceptual Metaphor
LUCK IS A PHYSICAL OBJECT (a spider) BRINGING WEALTH.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'money spider' primarily associated with?