meal ticket: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘meal ticket’ mean?
The idiom "meal ticket" refers to a source of income or a person who provides financial support, often in exchange for companionship or personal services.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "ticket to ride" means a means of transportation or a mode of travel that allows someone to go somewhere or achieve something.
The idiom "put food on the table" means to provide the necessary income or means to support oneself and one's family.
The idiom "on someone's dime" means that someone is paying for something on another person's behalf, usually referring to expenses or costs. It implies that someone else is covering the expenses, taking responsibility for the payment.
The idiom "meat rack" refers to a place or situation where people are widely observed or judged based on their physical appearance or attractiveness.
The idiom "meat on one's bones" refers to being physically well-built or having a healthy and robust appearance.
The idiom "meat market" refers to a place or situation where people are evaluated based on their physical appearance, often with a focus on attracting potential romantic or sexual partners.
The idiom "meat market" has several different meanings and interpretations that have evolved over time. This analysis will explore the various definitions and usages of this idiom, focusing specifically on its meaning in the United States.
The idiom "marry off" means to arrange and facilitate a marriage for someone, typically a family member, often with the purpose of ensuring financial stability or securing social status.
The idiom "marry off" is a commonly used phrase in English. It derives from the verb "marry," which means to join in marriage. When combined with the preposition "off," it takes on a different connotation.
The idiom "man of the people" refers to an individual who is relatable and well-liked by the general public. This person typically exhibits qualities of being down-to-earth, approachable, and in touch with the concerns and needs of ordinary people.
The idiom "make hay" means to take advantage of an opportunity or to make the most of a situation. It implies being proactive, efficient, and seizing the moment to achieve positive outcomes.
Jumpstarting Success
The idiom "meal ticket" is a common phrase in American English that refers to a reliable source of income or financial support. It can be traced back to the mid-19th century, but the exact details of its first usage are uncertain.
One possible origin of this idiom is the concept of a "ticket" as a means of obtaining something. In the case of a "meal ticket," it can be seen as a metaphorical ticket that provides sustenance or a livelihood. It is often used to describe someone or something that is relied upon for financial stability or support. Essentially, a "meal ticket" is something that puts food on the table.
The popularity of the idiom grew in the early 20th century through its frequent usage in newspapers and magazines. It became closely associated with the entertainment industry, where it referred to individuals who had a talent or popularity that guaranteed a consistent income. Essentially, they had a ticket to ride the wave of financial success.
As time went on, the meaning of the idiom expanded to include a reliance on luck or chance. In this broader context, a "meal ticket" can refer to a favorable circumstance or opportunity that leads to financial gain. It's a way to live off of luck or favorable circumstances.
It's important to note that the phrase "meal ticket" is primarily used in informal contexts, such as casual conversations or storytelling. It's not commonly used in formal or professional writing. The idiomatic expression varies in usage across different regions and social groups within the United States.
While the exact origins and early usage of the idiom "meal ticket" may remain somewhat obscure, it continues to be a well-established phrase in the English language. It has become ingrained in American vernacular and provides fertile ground for linguistic exploration and analysis. It's a phrase that is deeply ingrained in our cultural understanding of financial stability and success.
A "meal ticket" is not just a means of putting food on the table. It can represent a lot more - a ticket to ride the wave of financial success, an opportunity to live off favorable circumstances, and a way to navigate the meat market of life. So next time you hear the phrase "meal ticket," remember the varied implications and origins that have contributed to its usage in American English.
Example usage
Examples of how to use the idiom "meal ticket" in a sentence:
- She considered her job as a meal ticket, enabling her to provide for her family.
- He saw his lottery winnings as his meal ticket to a life of luxury.
- The musician's record deal became his meal ticket to fame and fortune.
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