The English language expression silver spoon is synonymous with wealth, especially inherited wealth; someone born into a wealthy family is said to have "been born with a silver spoon in his mouth". As an adjective, "silver-spoon" describes someone who has a prosperous background or is of a well-to-do family environment, often with the connotation that the person doesn't appreciate or deserve his or her advantage, it being inherited rather than earned. In Australia the expression "silvertail" is also used, with nearly identical meaning. It has been used in cultural or political situations to describe someone as aristocratic or out of touch with the common people.
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Famous quotes containing the words silver and/or spoon:
“They unhook their heavy swords
From golden and silver boughs;
But all that are killed in battle
Awaken to life again.”
—William Butler Yeats (1865–1939)
“Jefferson had many charms;
Was democratic; still and yet
What should one do? The family arms
On coach and spoon he wisely set....”
—Allen Tate (1899–1979)