leading strings

[ lee-ding ]

plural noun

1. strings for leading and supporting a child learning to walk.
2. excessively restraining guidance:

   His parents tried to keep him in leading strings, but he finally married and moved away.

Word History and Origins

Origin of leading strings¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

"I reckon I will have to put leading strings on both of you," replied Lawrence, with a smile.

From Project Gutenberg

He allowed himself to be taken in leading-strings; this, his first romantic adventure, gave him intense pleasure.

From Project Gutenberg

And then he was amenable to flattery, and few that are so are proof against the leading-strings of their flatterers.

From Project Gutenberg

He declared he would not submit his works to any ones correction; and that he would no longer be kept in leading-strings.

From Project Gutenberg

Meanwhile the English drama, freed from its leading strings, will find its own way for itself.

From Project Gutenberg