ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cut the cord

idiom
Meaning

To end a child's overdependence on or overattachment to their parents.


Origin

disputed origin

A variant of cut the umbilical cord.

Examples
SIMPLE

It is time for him to cut the cord and live alone.

CONTEXTUAL

After graduating from college, she finally decided to cut the cord and move into her own apartment.

COMPLEX

Although his parents still offered to pay his rent, he felt it was necessary to cut the cord to truly establish his own independence.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    clear cut

    Straightforward, obvious, simple, or basic.

  2. 02

    cut a dash

    To make a display of oneself; to give a conspicuous impression.

  3. 03

    cut a deal

    To reach a negotiated agreement.

  4. 04

    cut a figure

    To present an image; to make an impression.

  5. 05

    cut a rug

    To dance, especially in a vigorous manner and in one of the dance styles of the first half of the twentieth century.

  6. 06

    cut a swath

    Alternative form of cut a wide swath.

  7. 07

    cut a wide swath

    To behave in an expansive, flagrantly showy, or pushy manner, especially in public venues; to exert sweeping influence.

  8. 08

    cut about

    To go around (move from person to person).

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