Breadwinner

/ˈbrɛdˌwɪnər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who earns money to support a family, typically the primary monetary provider.

As the breadwinner of the family, he felt the pressure to provide for his wife and children.

The person whose earnings contribute the most to the household income.

In many households, the mother is often the breadwinner, balancing work and family responsibilities.

A term sometimes used to indicate the most financially successful individual in a group.

In their friend group, Sara has always been the breadwinner, landing a high-paying job right out of college.

Derived from the combination of 'bread' (representing food or sustenance) and 'winner' (one who wins or earns).

bring home the bacon

To earn a living or provide for one's family.

make ends meet

To manage one's finances so that income and expenses are balanced.

provider

A person who supplies the necessities of life.

earner

Someone who gains money through work or investment.

supporter

A person who supports another, often financially.

Money-maker

He's the money-maker in the family, always bringing in the cash.

Cash cow

His job is a cash cow that supports the whole family.