请输入您要查询的英文单词:

 

单词 family silver
释义

Definition of family silver in English:

family silver

noun ˌfam(ɪ)li ˈsɪlvəˌfam(ə)li ˈsɪlvə
  • 1Silverware belonging to a particular family, handed down from generation to generation, especially as an heirloom.

  • 2Figurative informal. Something considered to be of great value (materially or otherwise); a precious or venerable legacy. Now chiefly: specifically a well-established company, state-run industry, etc., regarded as an irreplaceable part of a nation's heritage. See to sell (off) the family silver.

Origin

Mid 19th century; earliest use found in Douglas Jerrold (1803–1857), playwright and journalist. From family + silver.

Definition of family silver in US English:

family silver

noun
  • 1Silverware belonging to a particular family, handed down from generation to generation, especially as an heirloom.

  • 2Figurative informal. Something considered to be of great value (materially or otherwise); a precious or venerable legacy. Now chiefly: specifically a well-established company, state-run industry, etc., regarded as an irreplaceable part of a nation's heritage. See to sell (off) the family silver.

Origin

Mid 19th century; earliest use found in Douglas Jerrold (1803–1857), playwright and journalist. From family + silver.

随便看

 

英汉双解词典包含464360条英汉词条,基本涵盖了全部常用单词的翻译及用法,是英语学习的有利工具。

 

Copyright © 2004-2022 Newdu.com All Rights Reserved
更新时间:2024/12/28 22:39:57