make money hand over fist

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase make money hand over fist, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression make money hand over fist used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "make money hand over fist"

Meaning

The idiom “make money hand over fist” means to make money in abundance quickly and easily. This phrase implies that the process of making money is effortless and happens quickly; it suggests that the individual is able to make a significant amount of money with minimal effort.

Etymology

The origin of the phrase “make money hand over fist” is uncertain, but the phrase likely arose in the late 1800s and gained popularity in the United States during the early 1900s. The earliest known use of the term was in an 1858 newspaper article in the San Francisco Times, which referred to an individual “making money hand over fist.”

Usage

The phrase “make money hand over fist” is typically used to express admiration for someone’s financial success, especially when it appears that their process of making money is effortless or requires minimal effort. It can also be used to express frustration or envy, especially when directed toward someone who is perceived to be unjustly or undeservedly wealthy.

Example Sentences

• My friend is making money hand over fist with her cupcake shop.
• It seems like he’s making money hand over fist, but I know that he works hard to get it.
• I wish I could make money hand over fist like those top executives.

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.