Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural significance of the phrase 'meal ticket' as a source of financial support. Discover its historical context, contemporary relevance, and illustrative examples.
A “meal ticket” refers to a source of financial support, often implying dependency on another individual, typically of the opposite sex. This term is frequently employed to describe a person who provides monetary sustenance or material benefits to another, akin to a benefactor or patron.
The phrase “meal ticket” originated from the literal concept of a ticket that entitled the bearer to a meal at a restaurant or similar establishment. This literal usage dates back to the late 19th century. By around 1900, the term began to acquire a figurative meaning, denoting a person or source that provides financial support. Initially, it was primarily associated with the notion of a “sugar daddy,” a wealthy individual, often male, who financially supports a younger partner. Over time, the term’s application broadened to encompass any benefactor-like relationship. An illustrative example is found in a 1949 article from the New York Times, which referred to a play as an actor’s “current meal ticket.”
The semantic implications of “meal ticket” extend beyond mere financial support, often carrying connotations of dependency, obligation, and sometimes exploitation. In various contexts, it may suggest a transactional relationship where financial provision is exchanged for companionship or other forms of non-monetary compensation. The phrase can be used both pejoratively and neutrally, depending on the speaker’s intent and the context in which it is employed.
In contemporary culture, “meal ticket” is often used in discussions of relationships characterized by financial dependency or imbalance. The term appears in literature, film, and everyday discourse to describe situations where one party is financially reliant on another. For instance, in popular media, characters may refer to a wealthy partner or benefactor as their “meal ticket,” highlighting the economic dynamics of their relationship.
The phrase “meal ticket” can vary in meaning across different contexts:
The phrase “meal ticket” remains relevant in contemporary discourse, particularly in discussions of financial dependency and relational dynamics. Its durability is rated as ★★★★☆, indicating its continued usage and cultural significance.
“Man and Superman [the play] . . . is the title of [actor] Maurice Evans’ current meal ticket.” - The New York Times (1949)