apron string
A symbol of the domestic ties binding a male to a female (as a husband to a wife or a son to a mother).
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He is still tied to his mother's apron strings.”
“At thirty, he finally moved out to stop living under his mother's apron strings.”
“Despite his professional success, he remained emotionally tethered to his wife's apron strings, unable to make even minor decisions without her approval.”
- 01
another string to one's bow
Another skill, ability or resource to be used in case of failure.
- 02
harp on one string
To dwell on a single subject with disagreeable or wearisome persistence.
- 03
harp on the same string
To repeatedly say the same thing.
- 04
hold the purse strings
To be in control of spending; to have financial power and responsibility.
- 05
loosen the apron strings
To allow greater freedom (to someone); to relax control of (someone).
- 06
loosen the purse strings
To increase spending or allow increased spending; to relax control of spending.
- 07
no strings attached
Without conditions or obligations; without a catch.
- 08
pull strings
To manipulate a situation, especially by asking favours of others; to use one's influence with others to attain a desired goal.
Last updated August 10, 2026