Breadwinner: meaning, definitions and examples
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breadwinner
[ ˈbrɛdˌwɪnər ]
family income
A breadwinner is typically a person who earns the primary income for a household. This role can be assumed by one or more individuals responsible for financially supporting the family. Traditionally, the term has been used to refer to male figures, but it is now widely applied to anyone who contributes significantly to the family’s financial resources, regardless of gender. The breadwinner's income is often crucial for covering living expenses such as housing, food, and education. This term highlights the importance of economic contribution within familial structures.
Synonyms
earner, income earner, provider.
Examples of usage
- In many families, the father is the breadwinner.
- She became the breadwinner after her partner lost his job.
- As the sole breadwinner, he felt a lot of pressure to provide for his family.
Translations
Translations of the word "breadwinner" in other languages:
🇵🇹 provedor
🇮🇳 कमाने वाला
🇩🇪 Familienernährer
🇮🇩 penopang keluarga
🇺🇦 годувальник
🇵🇱 żywiciel rodziny
🇯🇵 家計を支える人
🇫🇷 pourvoyeur
🇪🇸 sostenedor
🇹🇷 aile reisi
🇰🇷 가족의 생계를 책임지는 사람
🇸🇦 معيل الأسرة
🇨🇿 živitel rodiny
🇸🇰 živiteľ rodiny
🇨🇳 养家者
🇸🇮 preživljalec družine
🇮🇸 forskotari
🇰🇿 отбасы асыраушы
🇬🇪 ოჯახის გამგები
🇦🇿 ailə təminatçısı
🇲🇽 sostenedor
Etymology
The term 'breadwinner' originated in the late 19th century as a figurative expression referring to someone who 'wins' or earns the 'bread' necessary for survival and sustenance. The term combines the physical bread, a staple in diets across cultures symbolizing livelihood, with the notion of winning or earning. Historically, bread has represented sustenance and economic stability, making the breadwinner a key figure in family dynamics. This word reflects societal norms, where traditionally men took on the breadwinning role while women managed home responsibilities. However, as gender roles have evolved, 'breadwinner' now encompasses anyone who provides financial support in a household, breaking traditional boundaries and reflecting modern economic realities.