lap dog: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘lap dog’ mean?
Analyze the meaning of the idiom lap dog:
The idiom lap dog refers to someone who is submissive, overly eager to please, and completely dependent on another person, often surrendering their own opinions and needs in the process.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "tail wagging the dog" means a small or unimportant thing or person controlling a larger or more powerful thing or person. It refers to the idea of a dog being controlled by its tail, instead of the tail being controlled by the dog.
The idiom "lead a cat-and-dog life" means to have a chaotic or constantly quarrelsome existence.
The idiom "lead a cat-and-dog life" is used to describe a tumultuous and conflict-ridden existence. It suggests a life filled with constant arguments, discord, and strife. The phrase can be used to describe various situations, such as tumultuous relationships, frequent arguments, or a chaotic and unbalanced lifestyle.
The idiom "lay on" means to apply or administer something, usually in a forceful or excessive manner. It can also refer to providing or giving something, often in a generous or lavish way.
The idiom "lap up" means to enthusiastically accept or enjoy something, often without much thought or consideration. It is similar to eagerly drinking up or accepting something without hesitation.
Lap up is an idiom that describes someone eagerly or enthusiastically accepting or enjoying something without much consideration or discernment. This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts and can be applied to various situations.
The idiom "lap of luxury" refers to a state of great comfort, wealth, and luxury. It suggests a life of abundance and indulgence.
The idiom "lap of luxury" is often used to describe a life of extreme comfort and indulgence. It suggests a state of opulence and extravagance, where every desire or need is effortlessly met. The phrase has been in use for centuries, although its exact origins are unknown.
The idiom "lab rat" refers to a person who is subjected to extensive experimentation or testing, often in a scientific or research setting.
The idiom "lab rat" is commonly used to describe individuals who are subjected to scientific experiments or extensive research. The term draws a parallel between the use of rats in laboratory settings and how some individuals may feel used or exploited in certain situations.
The idiom "kick a dog when it's down" means to take advantage of someone who is already vulnerable or in a weakened state, typically to further harm or humiliate them. It implies a lack of compassion or empathy towards others.
The idiom "junkyard dog" refers to someone who is fiercely protective and aggressive in defending their territory or interests. It conveys the idea of toughness and tenacity, often used to describe individuals who are always ready to fight back or stand up for themselves.
The idiom "help a lame dog over a stile" means to assist someone who is in need or disadvantaged, even if the task is small or seemingly unimportant.
The idiom "help a lame dog over a stile" is an expression that has its origins in rural farming communities. While the exact origin and usage of the idiom are not definitive, it has been traced back to British English in the 17th century.
The idiom "grab by the lapels" means to confront or assert oneself in a forceful or assertive way, often in a conversation or argument. It implies taking control or demanding attention through assertive action.
Royal Companionship Unveiled
The idiom "lap dog" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It refers to a person who unquestioningly follows or obeys someone else, often someone in a position of power or authority. The term itself is derived from the literal meaning of a lap dog, which is a small, domesticated dog that is often carried or held on a person's lap.
Historically, lap dogs were popular among aristocrats and royalty, serving as companions and status symbols. The term "lap dog" began to be used figuratively in the early 19th century, initially with the sense of a person who is pampered or indulged.
Over time, the meaning of the idiom "lap dog" evolved to encompass the idea of subservience and blind obedience. It suggests a person who lacks independence or autonomy, instead relying on others for direction and guidance. While the term can carry negative connotations of weakness or lack of assertiveness, it is commonly used to describe someone who is excessively compliant or servile.
It is worth noting that the idiom "lap dog" is often used in a political context to describe politicians or individuals who unquestioningly support or follow a particular leader or party. This usage highlights the idea of blind allegiance and the potential loss of independent thought in favor of conforming to a dominant figure or ideology.
The idiom "lap up" is related to "lap dog." The phrase "lap up" means to eagerly accept or enjoy something, often with great enthusiasm. Much like a lap dog eagerly lapping up attention and affection, a person who "laps up" something is enthusiastic and eager to receive it.
The idiom "tail wagging the dog" is also related to "lap dog." It refers to a situation where a small or unimportant factor controls or influences a much larger or more significant one. In the context of "lap dog," this idiom can be used to convey the idea that a subordinate or subservient person is exerting undue influence or control over someone in a position of power.
The idiom "dog that caught the car" is another related expression. It describes a situation in which a person achieves or attains something they were not fully prepared or equipped to handle. In the context of "lap dog," this idiom can be used to suggest that a person who is unquestioningly obedient may find themselves in a position of authority or power without the necessary skills or qualifications.
The final related idiom is "help a lame dog over a stile." This phrase means to assist or support someone who is in a difficult or challenging situation. In the context of "lap dog," this idiom can be used to highlight the idea that a subservient person may provide assistance or support to someone in a position of power, even if it is not in their own best interest.
The idiom "lap dog" has a rich history and has evolved to convey the idea of subservience and unquestioning obedience. While it can be used in various contexts, it often carries a negative connotation of dependence and lack of assertiveness. However, it is important to recognize that like many idioms, the meaning of "lap dog" is not fixed and may vary depending on the specific context and cultural understanding.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "lap dog" can be used in a sentence:
1. Mary's little Chihuahua is her constant "lap dog" and follows her everywhere she goes.
2. The CEO's assistant is often seen as a "lap dog" as she always agrees with whatever the CEO says.
3. The politician's loyal aide is perceived as a "lap dog" because he unquestionably follows all the politician's orders.
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