# eat out of someone's hand

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/eat-out-of-someones-hand
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To behave in a docile, submissive way towards someone.

## Examples

- The new puppy eats out of my hand already.
- After the manager gave everyone a bonus, the entire team was eating out of his hand.
- Through a combination of calculated flattery and strategic gifts, the advisor soon had the king eating out of his hand.

## Origin

Attested in the early 20th century, the expression draws upon the behaviour of a domestic animal that has been sufficiently tamed to accept food directly from a human palm. It describes a transition from natural caution to a state of total, submissive reliance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.