lap of luxury: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘lap of luxury’ mean?
The idiom "lap of luxury" refers to a state of great comfort, wealth, and luxury. It suggests a life of abundance and indulgence.
Idiom Explorer
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 "lay of the land" refers to understanding or becoming familiar with a situation or environment. It implies gaining knowledge about the current state, conditions, or dynamics of a particular situation or place.
The idiom "laugh all the way to the bank" means to feel a sense of satisfaction or joy when you have made a lot of money or have been successful in financial matters.
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.
The idiom "jet-setting" refers to the lifestyle of frequent travel, especially by wealthy or influential individuals. It conveys an image of glamour, adventure, and a fast-paced lifestyle.
The idiom "jet set" refers to a group of wealthy and fashionable people who frequently travel by jet to glamorous destinations. This term is often used to describe a luxurious and extravagant lifestyle associated with socializing in high-class circles.
The idiom "hog heaven" refers to a state of extreme happiness, contentment, or satisfaction, usually as a result of indulging in one's favorite activities or pleasures.
The idiom "hit the jackpot" means to achieve a great success or obtain an unexpected, significant gain, often in a financial sense.
The idiom "high on the hog" means to live in a luxurious or extravagant manner, enjoying the best of everything. It originates from the idea that the choice cuts of meat, which are considered the best, come from the upper part of the pig.
Deciphering Opulence
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 metaphorical use of the word "lap" in this idiom refers to a figurative space where one can relax and enjoy the finer things in life. It signifies a life free from hardships and worries, where one can truly indulge in luxury and experience the "good life".
The idiom "lap up" is closely related to the "lap of luxury". It is used to describe the act of enthusiastically enjoying or accepting something, much like a dog eagerly lapping up water or milk. When one is living in the "lap of luxury", they are able to lap up all the pleasures and comforts that life has to offer.
Similarly, the idiom "fat of the land" is also related to the concept of the "lap of luxury". It refers to enjoying the best or most abundant resources or benefits that are available. When one is living in the "lap of luxury", they are able to enjoy the "fat of the land" - the finest and most luxurious things that life has to offer.
The idiom "high on the hog" is another expression that is connected to the idea of the "lap of luxury". It is used to describe a position of great comfort and luxury, often associated with wealth and success. When one is living in the "lap of luxury", they are able to live "high on the hog" - enjoying the highest level of comfort and indulgence.
The phrase "lap of luxury" has been used in various literary works, including Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield" published in 1850. It has since become a widely recognized and frequently used phrase in both spoken and written English. The idiom is often employed to emphasize a life of excess and abundance, portraying a glamorous and luxurious lifestyle that is often unattainable for most people.
While the idiom "lap of luxury" may not have a direct equivalent in other languages, the concept of extreme comfort and luxury transcends cultural boundaries. It is a universal desire to live a life of ease and indulgence, and such desires can be found in expressions and idioms in various languages around the world.
The idiom "lap of luxury" describes a life of opulence and comfort. Its origins may be shrouded in mystery, but its meaning and usage are well-established. Whether used in literature, advertising, or everyday speech, the idiom evokes images of relaxation, indulgence, and the fulfillment of every desire. It is a vivid and alluring portrayal of a tantalizing lifestyle that, for many, remains unattainable.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *lap of luxury* can be used in a sentence:
1. After winning the lottery, he moved to a penthouse apartment and lived in the lap of luxury.
2. The cruise ship offered its guests the opportunity to relax in the lap of luxury, with spacious cabins and a variety of gourmet dining options.
3. The famous actress was known for traveling in the lap of luxury, always flying first class and staying in the finest hotels.