Cut the cord

Meaning

Gain independence or end a dependency.

Usage

Applies to parenting, business, or media habits.

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.

Borrowed from cutting the umbilical cord and from severing a cable connection.

Gained ground in the 2000s with new tech and self-reliance talk.