cut sb off with a cent

/kˈʌt ˌɛsbˈiː ˈɒf wɪð ɐ sˈɛnt ɔː pˈɛni/

/kˈʌt ˌɛsbˈiː ˈɔf wɪð ɐ sˈɛnt ɔːɹ pˈɛni/

to cut sb off with a cent

PHRASE

to disinherit or withdraw financial support from a family member as a way to express disapproval or to enforce certain behaviors or decisions

to [cut] {sb} off with a (cent|penny) definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "cut one off with a cent" and when to use it?

The idiom "cut one off with a cent" is thought to have originated in the 18th century. It is believed to be a reference to the fact that a cent was a small amount of money, and therefore not enough to live on. It is used to describe someone who has been disowned by their family and left with no financial support, which is often used in a negative way, to suggest that the person has been treated unfairly.

Example

When Emma dropped out of college against her family's wishes, they decided to cut her off with a penny, hoping it would motivate her to make better choices.