Bring home the bacon

Meaning

Earn a living or deliver the results your family or team depends on.

Usage

Used when someone provides financially or succeeds in what was expected of them.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

The origin is uncertain. One account links it to a 1906 boxing match; another to an old English custom at Dunmow.

In use from the early 20th century.