purse strings

plural noun

1. the right or power to manage the disposition of money.

   in control of the family purse strings.

purse strings

plural noun

1. control of finance or expenditure (esp in such phrases as hold or control the purse strings )

Word History and Origins

Origin of purse strings¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. hold the purse strings, to have the power to determine how money shall be spent.

2. loosen / tighten the purse strings, to increase or decrease expenditures or the availability of money.

   The budget committee is in the process of tightening the purse strings.

Financial resources or control of them, as in His mother doesn't want to let go of the purse strings because he may make some foolish investments. This expression is often extended to, as in As long as Dad holds the purse strings, we have to consider his wishes, or The company is tightening the purse strings and will not be hiring many new people this year. The purse strings in this idiom are the means of opening and closing a drawstring purse. [Early 1400s]

Example Sentences

U.K. consumer sentiment slipped in November, with households tightening the purse strings ahead of the budget and a crucial holiday season for retailers.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The broadcast host said that while people have tightened their purse strings in China, they will still be willing to spend on certain things and experiences.

Read more on Barron's

Shoppers in Los Angeles are turning to more affordable brands, seeking deals and making their own presents to save money this holiday season, as many tighten their purse strings in anticipation of a weak economy.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

These fixtures were part of their wider schedule, dictated by those with a grip on the purse strings and who sign broadcast deals.

Read more on BBC

China, once the industry’s growth engine, has been reeling from its own economic difficulties, which have led consumers to tighten their purse strings.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal