nest egg
NEST EG
/ˈnɛst ˌɛɡ/
A sum of money saved for the future, especially for retirement or a specific purpose.
Refers specifically to a sum of money, often accumulated over time, intended for a significant future use. It carries a positive, hopeful connotation.
The story behind the word. The term 'nest egg' is a lovely metaphor from the world of poultry farming! Farmers would sometimes leave a real or artificial egg in a hen's nest to encourage her to lay more eggs there. This 'nest egg' would then attract other eggs, growing the collection. Similarly, a financial nest egg is an initial sum of money that you save, hoping it will attract more savings and grow into a larger fund for your future. It's a charming image of growth and security!
Word relationships
- savings: Money one has saved, especially through a bank or investment plan; 'nest egg' implies a specific, often larger, sum for a future goal.
- fund: A sum of money saved or made available for a particular purpose; 'nest egg' is more informal and personal.
- reserve: A supply of a commodity or money not needed for immediate use but available if required.
- debt: A sum of money that is owed or due.
- expenditure: The action of spending funds.
- liability: The state of being responsible for something, especially by law; a thing for which someone is responsible, especially a debt or financial obligation.
Commonly confused with
- stash: 'Nest egg' specifically refers to money saved for a significant future purpose. 'Stash' can be any item stored secretly, not necessarily money or for a long-term goal.
Collocations
- build a nest egg
- retirement nest egg
- sizeable nest egg
- grow a nest egg
Example sentences
- "After decades of hard work, she had built up a substantial nest egg for her retirement." Saving for retirement.
- "They were diligently saving every extra dollar to create a nest egg for a down payment on their first home." Saving for a down payment.
- "It's important to start building a nest egg early in life to ensure financial security." A general financial goal.
Memory hook
Like a bird's NEST, it's an EGG that grows into something bigger. BIRD'S EGG for future
When not to use
Do not use 'nest egg' for small, day-to-day savings or for money that is not specifically set aside for a long-term goal.
Fun facts
- The earliest recorded use of 'nest egg' in English dates back to the 17th century.
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