prodigal son: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

While the original phrase is gender-specific, the metaphorical use can be applied to any person. However, the fixed phrase 'prodigal son' is still most common, with 'prodigal daughter' being a recognized but less frequent variant.

Yes, but it's less common and more literary. 'Prodigal' as a noun means 'a person who spends money recklessly or returns after an absence'. 'Prodigal son' is the far more standard and evocative phrase.

It inherently implies a narrative *towards* forgiveness and welcome, as per the parable. Using it ironically (e.g., 'They did not exactly kill the fatted calf for this prodigal son') highlights the expectation of welcome that was not met.

A 'black sheep' is a disreputable or odd family member, often permanently estranged or disapproved of. A 'prodigal son' specifically leaves, lives wastefully, but the core of the story is his *accepted return* and reconciliation. The black sheep may never be welcomed back.

A person, especially a son, who leaves home to lead a reckless, wasteful life but is welcomed back with forgiveness and celebration upon returning.

Prodigal son is usually literary, religious, formal, allusive in register.

Prodigal son: in British English it is pronounced /ˌprɒd.ɪ.ɡəl ˈsʌn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌprɑː.dɪ.ɡəl ˈsʌn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.