cut the umbilical cord
Break parental dependence
To cut the umbilical cord is literally to sever the connection between a newborn and its placenta.
Figuratively, it means to end a dependent relationship, especially between parent and child: It's time for him to cut the umbilical cord and move out.
The phrase implies healthy separation, though it can suggest the dependency was prolonged beyond its natural term.
- motherFemale parent
- newbornInfant just delivered
- cordFlexible twisted strand
- apron stringTie on kitchen garment
- leaving the nestDeparting one's childhood home
individuation · birth · birth canal · cut · emancipation · delivery · scissors · severing · autonomy · independence · self-reliance · cut loose · separation · stump · self-sufficiency · parenting · nurture · clamping
cut the umbilical cordstay connected
cut the umbilical corddominate
Control through superior strength
micromanage · hover · overprotect · smother · helicopter parent
cutting, cutter, cutters, umbilical, umbilicus, corded, cordage