cupboard love

American  

noun

1. a personal attachment that appears to be motivated by love but in fact stems from the hope of gain.

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cupboard love British  

noun

1. a show of love inspired only by some selfish or greedy motive

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Other Word Forms

• cupboard lover
  noun

Etymology

Origin of cupboard love

First recorded in 1750–60

Example Sentences

Ancient Greeks had no word for cupboard love, but, undoubtedly, this is a love the vast majority of animal pets may feel for us.

From The Guardian • Jul. 16, 2019

He has a cupboard love for Sarah, but I think that his affection for me is simon-pure.

From Mavis of Green Hill by Baldwin, Faith

But it isn’t cupboard love, at least not quite.

From The Rustle of Silk by Hamilton, Cosmo

"It's all cupboard love with them," he said.

From The Belton Estate by Trollope, Anthony

You'll find the basket in the cupboard, love.

From Good Luck by Meade, L. T.