nourish a viper in one's bosom

تعریف و معنای "[nourish|nurse|foster] a (viper|snake) in {one's} bosom"

to nourish a viper in one's bosom

مار در آستین پرورش دادن

to support or take care of someone who turns out to be untrustworthy or harmful, despite one's good intentions

to [nourish|nurse|foster] a (viper|snake) in {one's} bosom definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "nourish a viper in one's bosom" and when to use it?

The idiom "nourish a viper in one's bosom" can be traced back to ancient Roman mythology and Aesop's fables. The phrase refers to the story of a person who unknowingly takes care of a venomous snake, symbolizing a treacherous or deceitful individual. It is used to caution against misplaced trust or being too generous to someone who does not deserve it. It is often employed to describe situations where someone is deceived by a person they had trusted or helped.

مثال

John thought Mary was a trustworthy supporter, but he was nursing a snake in his bosom because she was secretly working for his political rival.

I'm afraid that I've been nourishing a viper in my bosom.

Tom thought he could trust his new roommate, but he soon realized he had nourished a snake in his bosom when he discovered his missing belongings.

David thought Susan was a loyal employee, but he fostered a snake in his bosom because she had been stealing from the company.

Mike realized he had fostered a viper in his bosom when Emily's behavior caused several other players to become unhappy and ultimately led to her being kicked off the team.