Bring home the bacon Neutral

English idiom: Bring home the bacon

Last updated: 15.09.2026

Equivalent idioms in other languages

Meaning

To earn the main income or money needed to support a family and household expenses.

Origin

Traced to the 12th-century English tradition in Great Dunmow, Essex. Any married couple who could swear before God and the court that they had not argued for a year and a day was rewarded with a side of bacon.

Examples

She works two jobs to bring home the bacon and support her kids.

In many modern households, both partners work to bring home the bacon.

He has been bringing home the bacon for the family since he was twenty years old.

A: Is your brother still looking for work?
B: No, he got a great software engineering job and is bringing home the bacon now.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'Bring home the bacon' mean?

To earn the main income or money needed to support a family and household expenses.

How do you say 'Bring home the bacon' in Russian?

Зарабатывать на хлеб

How do you say 'Bring home the bacon' in Spanish?

Llevar el pan a casa

How do you say 'Bring home the bacon' in French?

Gagner sa vie

Related idioms