cut the (umbilical) cord

Definition & Meaning of "[cut] the (umbilical|) cord"

to cut the (umbilical) cord

to start behaving independently instead of relying on others for help or support

What is the origin of the idiom "cut the cord" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "cut the cord" in the specific context of ending cable or satellite television subscriptions can be traced to the increasing popularity of streaming services in the late 2000s and early 2010s. As more households opted to cancel their traditional cable or satellite TV subscriptions and rely on streaming platforms for entertainment, the phrase "cut the cord" emerged as a metaphor for this transition. It is commonly used in discussions about entertainment, technology, and media trends.

Example

She realized that cutting the cord would not only save money but also give her the flexibility to watch her favorite shows whenever and wherever she wanted.

Tired of high cable bills, they decided to cut the umbilical cord and rely on streaming services for their entertainment needs.

The family's decision to cut the umbilical cord opened up a world of streaming options, allowing them to tailor their viewing preferences to their own tastes.