PhrasesHub

Under the thumb

    Definitions

      • Control or domination over someone
        To have power or influence over someone, usually in a negative or oppressive way.

      • Obedience or submission
        To be completely under someone's command or orders, with little or no freedom to make decisions or act independently.

      • Influence or sway
        To be easily persuaded or influenced by someone, often resulting in the loss of personal agency or autonomy.

      • Suppressed or repressed
        To be kept in check or restrained, often implying a sense of being oppressed or held down.

    Examples of Under the thumb

    • She's been under the thumb of her overbearing mother ever since she was a child.

      This idiom means that someone is completely controlled or dominated by another person, often in a negative way. In this example, the daughter has been heavily influenced and controlled by her mother's overbearing behavior since childhood.

    • After years of being under the thumb of his boss, he finally quit and started his own business.

      This example shows that the person was previously in a position where he was completely controlled and directed by his boss, but he was able to break free and take control of his own career by starting his own business.

    • The athletes were under the thumb of their coach during the intense training camp.

      This example illustrates that the athletes were completely under the control and direction of their coach during the rigorous training camp.

    • The company's new CEO has been working to free his employees from being under the thumb of their previous boss.

      This example shows that the new CEO is working to break the previous boss's control over the employees and give them more freedom and autonomy in their work.

    • She's been trying to break free from being under the thumb of her ex-husband's controlling behavior.

      This example demonstrates that the person has been attempting to break free from the control and influence of her ex-husband's behavior, which may have been negative or overbearing.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "under the thumb" typically refers to a relationship dynamic where one person has control or influence over another, often in a negative or oppressive way. This can manifest in different forms, such as being obedient or submissive, easily influenced, or suppressed. It suggests a lack of personal agency and the feeling of being dominated or restricted by someone else.

    The phrase can also be used more broadly to describe any situation where someone is under the control or influence of a dominant force or authority. It can be applied to various contexts, such as personal relationships, work environments, or societal structures.

    Origin of "Under the thumb"

    The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the late 17th or early 18th century. The phrase is thought to have derived from the image of a thumb being used as a tool to control or manipulate someone, as in pressing down on them or using it to point in a certain direction.

    Some sources also suggest that the phrase may have originated from the practice of indentured servants in the 17th century, who would sign contracts with an "X" and then have their thumbs marked with ink to indicate their agreement. This could also be seen as a form of control or submission.

    Overall, the idiom "under the thumb" carries a negative connotation and implies a sense of oppression or domination. It is a powerful and visual metaphor for the imbalance of power in a relationship or situation.