Under the thumb
Meaning
To be completely controlled or dominated by another person.
Origin
The human thumb has long been a potent symbol of authority and control, from the Roman emperor's decree of life or death with a simple gesture, to a strong hand firmly grasping an object. By the 19th century, this symbolic power had found its way into everyday English. The phrase "under the thumb" vividly pictures one individual so completely subjugated that they are metaphorically held down and controlled by the mere press of another's thumb, implying an effortless and absolute dominance over their will and actions.
Examples
- Ever since he started dating her, he's been completely under the thumb, agreeing to all her demands.
- The CEO kept his subordinates strictly under the thumb, ensuring no one questioned his decisions.