spoil somebody rotten: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘spoil somebody rotten’ mean?
The idiom "spoil somebody rotten" means to give someone excessive amounts of praise, attention, or material possessions, to the point that it has a negative impact on their behavior or character.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "taste of one's own medicine" means to experience the same negative treatment or consequences that one has given to others.
The idiom "tan someone's hide" means to punish or discipline someone physically, often by giving them a beating. This phrase is usually used to indicate a severe or harsh form of punishment.
The idiom "sweep someone off their feet" means to completely charm or impress someone, often leading them to quickly form an intense romantic attraction or emotional connection.
The idiom "steal someone's thunder" means to take credit for someone else's idea, innovation, or success, often overshadowing or diminishing their achievement.
An idiom meaning to betray someone or deceive them dishonestly, often when they least expect it.
The idiom "spoil the market" means to cause a decline in the demand or value of a particular product or service, typically due to excess supply or the introduction of inferior alternatives.
The idiom "spoil someone rotten" means to excessively pamper or indulge someone, often resulting in them becoming spoiled or having a sense of entitlement.
The idiom "spoil the market" means to negatively affect a situation or competition, usually by introducing a cheaper or superior product that diminishes the value or demand for other options.
The idiom "spit on" is typically used to convey the idea of disrespect or disregard towards someone or something. It suggests a lack of value or importance placed on someone or something, often accompanied by a dismissive or contemptuous attitude.
Indulgent Affections
The commonly used phrase "spoil somebody rotten" in American English refers to lavishing excessive attention, affection, or material possessions on someone to the point where it may have negative consequences. This idiom conveys the idea of indulging or overpampering an individual, often resulting in them becoming dependent, entitled, or lacking in resilience. The root word "spoil" originates from the Old French word "espoillier," which meant to strip or plunder. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of corrupting or ruining something. When used with the word "somebody," it refers to a specific person who receives this excessive favoritism.
The idiom "spoil somebody rotten" is frequently used in colloquial language, especially in informal or familial settings, to describe situations where parents, grandparents, or caretakers excessively indulge a child. By doing so, they may inadvertently contribute to the development of negative traits or behaviors, such as entitlement, lack of gratitude, or unrealistic expectations. The phrase "rotten" in this context emphasizes the potential harmful consequences of overindulgence and the negative impact it can have on the person being spoiled.
This idiom is not limited to children alone; it can also be used to depict scenarios where individuals of any age are excessively pampered or doted on. In such cases, the idiom suggests that the person being spoiled has been negatively affected, potentially fostering an unhealthy dependency or a sense of entitlement. The widespread usage of this expression indicates that it has likely been a part of the English language for an extended period but may have gained popularity in recent times through common usage and cultural references.
As a cautionary reminder, the idiom "spoil somebody rotten" highlights the potential negative consequences of excessive indulgence or favoritism. It serves as a reminder to maintain a balanced approach to nurturing and caregiving, avoiding overpampering. While the exact origins of this idiom remain uncertain, its enduring usage and cultural resonance demonstrate its significance in American English. The phrase encapsulates the complexities of relationships, parenting dynamics, and the delicate balance between providing love and support while fostering personal growth and self-sufficiency.
"spoil someone rotten" is one of many idiomatic expressions used in American English. Another related idiom worth exploring is "spoil market." The idiom "spoil market" is used to describe a situation where someone's actions disrupt or damage a particular market or industry. This disruption often occurs due to excessive competition, overproduction, or artificially low prices. Consequently, this idiom suggests that the actions of a person or entity have negatively impacted the market, potentially leading to financial loss, decreased profitability, or reduced opportunities for other participants.
While "spoil somebody rotten" focuses on the consequences of excessive indulgence on an individual, "spoil market" sheds light on the negative impact of actions within a broader economic context. Both idioms highlight the potential harm caused by excessive or inappropriate behavior, whether it be pampering an individual or disrupting a market. Understanding and recognizing these idiomatic expressions allows us to effectively communicate, convey nuances, and bring depth to our conversations.
Example usage
1. Sarah's parents spoil her rotten by buying her whatever she wants and giving her unlimited freedom.
2. The grandparents spoiled their grandchild rotten during their visit, showering them with presents and treats.
3. Despite being well-behaved, the little girl was spoiled rotten by her doting older siblings who always gave in to her demands.
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