silver spoon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Rarely. It is most commonly used as a critique to imply someone is out of touch, entitled, or has not earned their position. Using it directly about someone would likely be seen as an insult.

Yes, the opposite is often described as 'rags to riches' or being a 'self-made' man/woman. The archetypal antonym is starting with 'a wooden spoon' (though less common).

Typically no. It is an attribute of a person or a group of people (e.g., 'silver spoon politicians'). It is not used for objects or abstract concepts.

It dates back to the 18th century. Godparents would traditionally give a silver spoon as a christening gift, a custom among the wealthy. Thus, to be 'born with a silver spoon in one's mouth' meant to be born into a wealthy family.

A phrase denoting inherited wealth, privilege, and high social position, implying someone has had significant advantages from birth without having to earn them.

Silver spoon is usually informal, figurative. common in journalistic, sociological, and everyday critical discourse about class and privilege. in register.

Silver spoon: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɪl.və ˈspuːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɪl.vɚ ˈspuːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.