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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

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.