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to nourish a viper in one's bosom
01
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](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/40143/original/?type=jpeg "to [nourish|nurse|foster] a (viper|snake) in {one's} bosom definition and meaning")
IdiomWhat 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.
Example
David thought Emily was a good tenant, but he was nursing a viper in his bosom because she was damaging the property and not paying rent.
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.
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