born with a silver spoon in one's mouth
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English[edit]
Etymology[edit]
(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium. Particularly: “This needs sourcing.”)
- According to some, the original nautical expression is just born with a silver spoon and describes those young gentlemen who were able to enter the Royal Navy without examination and whose promotion was assured. The converse was born with a wooden ladle.
- However, the phrase is first recorded as a Scottish proverb in the form "Every Man is no born with a Silver Spoon in his Mouth" (1721).
Pronunciation[edit]
Audio (AU) (file)
Adjective[edit]
born with a silver spoon in one's mouth (not comparable)
- (idiomatic) born rich, or into a wealthy family
- He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and probably never had to work a day in his life.
Translations[edit]
born rich or in a wealthy family