To "hold the purse strings" means to have control or authority over the finances or budget of an individual, organization, or household. It refers to being in charge of managing and distributing the money.
The phrase originates from the literal meaning of "purse strings," which are the drawstrings used to open and close a purse. In the context of financial control, the purse strings symbolize the power to grant access, make decisions, or limit the flow of money.
When someone holds the purse strings, they typically have the final say in financial matters, including budget allocation, expenditure approval, and financial planning. They often possess the authority to make decisions on behalf of others, particularly when it comes to larger sums of money.
Individuals who hold the purse strings are commonly associated with the role of a financial controller, such as a head of a household, a company treasurer, or a government official responsible for managing national finances. Holding the purse strings often requires a level of trust and responsibility since it involves making decisions that can significantly impact the financial well-being and stability of an organization or household.
The proverbial phrase "hold the purse strings" can also be used more broadly to describe a person who has control over resources or access to funding, allowing them to influence decisions or exert power over others.
