Meaning
Born into a wealthy, privileged, or high-class family, enjoying financial security and special advantages from birth.
Origin
Dates back to 18th-century England, based on the traditional custom where wealthy godparents presented silver spoons as christening gifts to newborns. Poorer families could only afford wooden or pewter spoons.
Examples
He never had to worry about tuition fees because he was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
Even though she was born with a silver spoon in her mouth, she works hard every day.
Many tech founders come from modest backgrounds and were not born with a silver spoon in their mouth.
A: Does he really understand how hard it is to pay rent?
B: Probably not, he was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Born with a silver spoon in one's mouth' mean?
Born into a wealthy, privileged, or high-class family, enjoying financial security and special advantages from birth.