The phrase “apple of one’s eye” is a common idiom that has been used for centuries. It is an expression that is used to describe someone or something that is cherished or valued above all else. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “apple of one’s eye” and its origins.
Definitions
The phrase “apple of one’s eye” is used to describe someone or something that is cherished or valued above all others. The term is often used to describe a person’s child or a beloved family member, but it can also refer to a treasured possession or even a place.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “apple of one’s eye” can be traced back to the Bible. In the Old Testament, there is a passage in which God refers to the Israelites as the “apple of his eye.” This phrase was later adopted by English writers and has been used in literature ever since.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the phrase “apple of one’s eye” means “a person or thing that is greatly loved or treasured.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a person or thing that is very precious or dear to someone.”
Associations
The phrase “apple of one’s eye” is often associated with love and affection. It is used to describe the deep emotional connection that someone has with another person or object. It is also associated with protection and care, as a person will often go to great lengths to protect the things that they consider to be the “apple of their eye.”
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “apple of one’s eye” include:
- Darling.
- Precious.
- Beloved.
- Favorite.
- Treasured.
- Adored.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for “apple of one’s eye” include:
- Disliked.
- Detested.
- Hated.
- Loathed.
- Unloved.
The same root words
The phrase “apple of one’s eye” does not have any root words. However, it is believed that the phrase may have been influenced by the Latin phrase “pupilla oculi,” which translates to “the pupil of the eye.” This phrase was used to describe the reflection of a person’s face that can be seen in someone else’s eye.
Example Sentences
- My daughter is the apple of my eye.
- He treats that car like it’s the apple of his eye.
- The park where we had our first date will always be the apple of my eye.
The phrase “apple of one’s eye” is a common idiom that has been used for centuries. It is an expression that is used to describe someone or something that is cherished or valued above all else. The origins of the phrase can be traced back to the Bible, and it has been used in literature ever since. The phrase is associated with love and affection, and it is often used to describe the deep emotional connection that someone has with another person or object.