Originally a small allowance given to a woman in order to purchase clothes etc. for herself. More recently it is used to describe any small amount of money which might be earned by children or the low-paid for some service.
Pin money
What's the meaning of the phrase 'Pin money'?
What's the origin of the phrase 'Pin money'?
The early usage is alluded to in the 16th century in The Testamenta Eboracensia – A Selection of Wills from the Registry at York, 1542:
“I give my said doughter Margarett my lease of the parsonadge of Kirkdall Churche.. to by her pynnes withal.”
The first explicit mention of ‘pin money’ is in J. Keble’s English Republic:
On difference between him and his lady about settlement of 200 l. per annum, pin-mony in case of separation,
The history of “Pin money” in printed materials
Trend of pin money in printed material over time
Related phrases and meanings
Browse more Phrases
About the Author
Phrases & Meanings
A-Z
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T UV W XYZ
Categories
American Animals Australian Bible Body Colour Conflict Death Devil Dogs Emotions Euphemism Family Fashion Food French Horses ‘Jack’ Luck Money Military Music Names Nature Nautical Numbers Politics Religion Shakespeare Stupidity Entertainment Weather Women Work
How did we do?
Have you spotted something that needs updated on this page? We review all feedback we receive to ensure that we provide the most accurate and up to date information on phrases.