purse strings

American  

plural noun

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

   in control of the family purse strings.

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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.

purse strings British  

plural noun

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

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purse strings More Idioms  

1. 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]

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Etymology

Origin of purse strings

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425

Example Sentences

Basic economy passengers can upgrade when spending is strong, while business-class travelers can trade down to premium economy when purse strings tighten.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

That’s a precarious model if middle-class Americans have to tighten their purse strings.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

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.

From Barron's • Nov. 14, 2025

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.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 13, 2025

The policy at corporate was the Customer Is Always Right, though the customer was not usually the resident but the relatives who controlled the purse strings.

From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman