arm candy: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘arm candy’ mean?
The idiom "arm candy" refers to a person, usually an attractive one, who accompanies someone to an event or gathering purely for the purpose of enhancing the other person's appearance or social status.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take someone's arm" means to hold someone's arm, often to guide or support them physically or emotionally.
The idiom "knight in shining armor" refers to a person who comes to someone's rescue, providing help and support in a difficult situation. The phrase evokes the image of a chivalrous knight, symbolizing a heroic and selfless individual.
The idiom "keep someone company" means to stay with or accompany someone in order to provide them with companionship or prevent them from feeling lonely.
The idiom "just another pretty face" is used to describe someone who is attractive but lacks intelligence, skills, or substance. It implies that the person's appearance is their main or only attribute, often used in a dismissive or derogatory manner.
The idiom "icing on the cake" refers to something that is an additional bonus or enhancement to an already good situation or outcome.
The idiom "icing on the cake" is derived from the literal meaning of "icing" as a sweet or decorative covering for a cake, and the figurative meaning of "cake" as something gratifying. When used metaphorically, it refers to an additional benefit or bonus that enhances an already enjoyable situation.
The idiom "helping hand" refers to offering assistance or support to someone who is in need or experiencing difficulties.
The phrase "helping hand" is commonly used to refer to assistance or support that is provided to someone in need. It is often used metaphorically, indicating that someone is offering help or giving aid in a difficult situation. This idiom can be seen as a way to describe the act of giving someone a hand or lending a hand when they need it most.
The idiom "heart balm" refers to actions or words that are intended to soothe or mend a broken heart or to gain sympathy or affection. It is often used in reference to insincere gestures or false promises made to manipulate someone emotionally.
The idiom "good looker" refers to a person who is physically attractive or visually pleasing.
The idiom "good looker" is used to describe someone who is physically attractive or pleasing to look at. It is a common phrase used in informal contexts and usually carries a positive connotation. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the late 19th century, and it has remained in use throughout the decades.
The idiom "God's gift to women" is used to describe a man who believes he is incredibly attractive or desirable to women. It implies that he sees himself as a special or superior gift from God to women.
The idiom "give someone wood" is a slang phrase that is used to describe a feeling of sexual attraction or arousal towards someone.
Seductive Indulgence
The idiom "arm candy" is a popular term used in English-speaking countries. It refers to a person, typically a woman, who is admired for their appearance and is seen as a status symbol. This term is often used to describe someone who accompanies another person, usually of higher status or wealth, in social settings.
The origin of the idiom "arm candy" is believed to come from the idea that candy is a desirable and pleasurable item. In a similar way, having an attractive person by your side can be seen as an enjoyable and visually appealing experience. The term has gained popularity in contemporary slang and is frequently used in informal conversations, media, and popular culture.
The usage of this idiom is primarily colloquial and informal. It is commonly found in casual settings, such as social gatherings or discussions among friends. Furthermore, "arm candy" is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner, highlighting the attractiveness or desirability of the person being referred to.
While "arm candy" is often associated with women, it can also be used to describe men who are seen as visually pleasing or desirable companions. The idiom does not have a gender-specific connotation, and its usage can extend to people of any gender.
Now let's explore a few related idioms that are connected to the concept of "arm candy."
First, we have the idiom "brain candy." This phrase refers to something that is intellectually stimulating or mentally enjoyable. It can be books, movies, puzzles, or anything that engages and entertains the mind. Just as "arm candy" is visually pleasing, "brain candy" is mentally pleasing. It provides intellectual stimulation and can be seen as a form of entertainment or a way to relax and unwind.
Next, there's the idiom "take someone's arm." This phrase is used to describe the act of linking arms with someone as a gesture of companionship or support. It signifies a close and intimate connection between two individuals. In the context of "arm candy," the act of taking someone's arm suggests a personal and emotional attachment to the visually pleasing companion.
Lastly, we have the idiom "heart balm." This phrase refers to anything that provides emotional comfort or relief. It can be a person, an action, or even a symbolic gesture. In relation to "arm candy," the visually pleasing companion can be seen as a source of emotional comfort and satisfaction. Their presence brings joy and happiness to the individual they are accompanying, serving as a form of heart balm.
These idioms, "brain candy," "take someone's arm," and "heart balm," highlight different aspects of the concept of "arm candy." While "arm candy" emphasizes visual attractiveness and serves as a status symbol, "brain candy" focuses on intellectual stimulation, "take someone's arm" signifies emotional connection and support, and "heart balm" represents emotional comfort and relief. Together, these idioms provide a broader understanding of the significance and appeal of having a visually pleasing companion.
All in all, the idiom "arm candy" captures the idea of having a visually attractive and desirable companion. It originated from the association of candy with pleasure and desirability. While primarily used to describe women, it can also be applied to men. The term is colloquial and informal, often used in a playful or lighthearted manner. Additionally, related idioms such as "brain candy," "take someone's arm," and "heart balm" further expand on different aspects of the concept of "arm candy."
Example usage
"Arm candy" is a colloquial idiom that is used to refer to a person, typically an attractive man or woman, who is accompanied by someone more successful, wealthy, or influential, solely for the purpose of enhancing their own image or social status. This term is often used in a playful or slightly derogatory manner, and is commonly associated with the world of celebrity and high society. Here are three examples of how the idiom "arm candy" can be used in a sentence:
- "The wealthy businessman arrived at the red carpet event with a beautiful young model as his arm candy."
- "He was delighted to show off his stunning new girlfriend to his friends and colleagues, considering her to be the perfect arm candy."
- "Sarah's friends often joked that her boyfriend was just a piece of arm candy, chosen for his good looks and not much else."
More "Fashion" idioms
