"tied to {one's} apron strings" 的定义和意义

What is the origin of the idiom "tied to one's apron strings" and when to use it?

The idiom "tied to one's apron strings" likely emerged from traditional gender roles and the domestic sphere. Aprons have long been associated with women's clothing, particularly in the context of household chores and caregiving. The phrase metaphorically suggests a person, usually a child or a subordinate individual, being closely connected to the authority and influence of a dominant figure, typically a mother or a spouse. The apron strings symbolize the physical attachment and dependence, representing the subordinate's reliance on the dominant figure for guidance, support, and decision-making. It is commonly employed when discussing relationships, particularly those involving parents and children or spouses.