PhrasesHub

Security blanket

    Definitions

      • a source of comfort or security
        Describing something or someone that provides a feeling of safety or reassurance in a difficult or uncertain situation

      • something relied on for emotional support
        Referring to a person or object that offers a sense of safety and stability, often in a symbolic or metaphorical sense

    Examples of Security blanket

    • Sarah clutched her old teddy bear to her chest as she drifted off to sleep each night. Even at the age of 25, the bear served as her "security blanket," bringing her a sense of comfort and familiarity.

      The phrase "security blanket" is often used metaphorically to describe something that provides a sense of comfort, safety, or security. In Sarah's case, her teddy bear was a physical object that brought her a sense of comfort and familiarity, much like a baby might rely on a blanket for security. The phrase "security blanket" is particularly appropriate here because Sarah is clinging tightly to the bear, much like a baby might cling to a blankie.

    • As the opening night for her new play approached, Emily felt her nerves start to get the best of her. To help calm her nerves, she turned to her "security blanket" - a bottle of whiskey. She sipped slowly, feeling the warmth spread through her body as she prepared to take the stage.

      In this example, "security blanket" is being used metaphorically to describe something that helps to alleviate anxiety or nerves. For Emily, a glass of whiskey served as her security blanket, helping her to feel calm and collected as she prepared to perform.

    • As a first-time entrepreneur, Sarah struggled to navigate the complex world of starting her own business. She found comfort in her "security blanket" - her trusty mentor, who was always quick to offer advice and guidance.

      Here, "security blanket" is being used metaphorically to describe something that provides support and guidance during a time of uncertainty or change. For Sarah, her mentor was a valuable "security blanket," offering her the advice and guidance she needed to navigate the challenging world of entrepreneurship.

    • After her divorce, Jane found herself struggling to adjust to life on her own. To help ease the transition, she turned to her "security blanket" - her tight-knit group of friends. They offered her a sense of comfort and support, helping her to cope with the changes in her life.

      In this example, "security blanket" is being used metaphorically to describe something that provides a sense of support and comfort during a time of change. For Jane, her friends served as her "security blanket," helping her to navigate the challenging transition of moving on from her marriage.

    • Although Alice is a successful businesswoman, she still carries a stuffed animal with her everywhere she goes. This toy, which she's had since she was a child, has become her "security blanket" and brings her comfort in unfamiliar or stressful situations.

      The phrase "security blanket" is used to describe something that provides a feeling of safety and security, much like a literal blanket brings warmth and comfort. In this case, the stuffed animal serves as a source of comfort and security for Alice, allowing her to feel protected and calm in situations that might otherwise be stressful or overwhelming.

    • Sarah still carries a stuffed animal with her to bed every night, even though she's in her 30s. It brings her a sense of comfort and security, like a safety blanket.

      The phrase "security blanket" is a figurative expression that refers to something that provides a sense of comfort or safety in a situation that would otherwise be uncomfortable or dangerous. In Sarah's case, the stuffed animal serves as a symbol of familiarity and protection, just as a literal blankie might have done for her as a child.

    • The CEO of the company is known for relying heavily on a few loyal employees, as if they were his personal security blankets.

      In this instance, the phrase is being used metaphorically to describe someone's excessive reliance on certain people or things for security or support. The idea is that these individuals or resources are like a comforting blanket that shields the CEO from potential harm or uncertainty.

    • For Mark, writing is his security blanket, a source of comfort and solace that he turns to when he's feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

      Here, the expression is being used to describe a person's coping mechanism or source of solace. Writing helps Mark feel grounded and centered, just as a physical blanket might provide physical and emotional warmth and security.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "security blanket" is often used to describe something or someone that provides a sense of comfort or emotional support. It can refer to a literal object, such as a physical blanket, that brings a feeling of safety, or to a person or thing that offers reassurance in a challenging or unsettling situation. The phrase is used to convey the idea of relying on something for a sense of security or stability.

    Origin of "Security blanket"

    The phrase "security blanket" originated from the popular comic strip "Peanuts," created by Charles M. Schulz. The character Linus, known for his attachment to his blanket, often used it as a source of comfort and security. The term has since been adopted into everyday language to describe anything that provides a feeling of safety or reassurance. The idiom has become a widely recognized expression for seeking emotional support or finding comfort in a difficult moment. Its origin in popular culture has contributed to its enduring use in modern language.