In today’s world, the concept of breadwinners holds great importance. With the rise in the cost of living, it has become essential for families to have a breadwinner who can provide for their daily needs. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, definitions, and associations of breadwinners.
Definitions
A breadwinner is defined as an individual who earns the primary income for their family. The term is often used to describe the head of the household who is responsible for providing for their family’s basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing.
Origin
The term breadwinner has its roots in the Middle Ages when bread was the primary source of sustenance for most people. The term was first used in the 1820s to describe the person who earned the money to purchase bread for their family.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford Dictionary, a breadwinner is “a person who earns money to support their family, typically the sole or main earner.” The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a breadwinner as “a person who earns money to support a family.”
Associations
The term breadwinner is often associated with the traditional gender roles of men being the primary earners and women being responsible for caring for the family. However, this association is changing with more women entering the workforce and taking on the role of breadwinners.
Synonyms
Some of the synonyms of breadwinners include provider, supporter, earner, and wage earner.
Antonyms
Some of the antonyms of breadwinners include dependent, non-earner, and beneficiary.
The same root words
The term breadwinner is derived from the words “bread” and “winner.” Bread refers to the basic sustenance of life, while winner refers to someone who is successful or victorious.
Example Sentences
- John is the breadwinner of his family, and he works hard to provide for his wife and children.
- Sarah has taken on the role of breadwinner since her husband lost his job.
- The family struggled to make ends meet after their breadwinner passed away.
In conclusion, the concept of breadwinners has evolved over time, and it is no longer limited to traditional gender roles. It is essential to have a breadwinner in a family to ensure that their basic needs are met. The term breadwinner is associated with hard work, dedication, and responsibility.