# wear the trousers

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/wear-the-trousers
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

(typically of a woman) To be the dominant partner in a relationship.

## Examples

- In their relationship, it is clear that she wears the trousers.
- Everyone knows that he makes no major decisions without asking his wife, who definitely wears the trousers.
- While he maintained a public image of authority, those close to the couple understood that his wife was the one who truly wore the trousers.

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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.