Golden Child: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
July 3, 2023

The phrase "golden child" refers to someone who is favored or cherished above others. It signifies that an individual is highly valued, often with a sense of perfection and high expectations attached.

In short:

"Golden child" is used to indicate someone who is highly favored, cherished, and often expected to excel in various aspects.

What Does "Golden Child" Mean?

"Golden child" is a casual term denoting a person, often within a family or group, who is especially favored, adored, and placed on a pedestal. People often use "golden child" in everyday conversations to point out someone who is showered with affection and has high expectations placed upon them.

For example, "He has always been the golden child of the family, receiving praise and support in everything he does." It suggests that the person is highly valued within the family.

Let's explore its core meanings and usage:

  • This phrase usually implies favoritism towards an individual, often accompanied by high expectations.
  • People use it colloquially to describe someone who is cherished within a family, organization, or community.
  • It may also indicate that others in the group feel less valued in comparison.

Where Does "Golden Child" Come From?

The term "golden child" does not have a specific origin but is rather an idiomatic expression that developed over time. The word "golden" implies value and preciousness, while "child" often refers to a family or group member. Together, the term has come to symbolize someone who is treasured and esteemed highly.

Historical Example

"Thus in his mother's dreary prison house the golden child is born."

- The Mythology of the Aryan Nations, 1870

10 Examples of "Golden Child" in Sentences

Here are some examples of the phrase in various sentences.

  • Don't expect the golden child in the office to just roll over and accept your demands.
  • What can I say? Being the golden child has its perks.
  • The company’s new product is seen as the golden child of the tech industry.
  • As the golden child, the sky is the limit for my achievements.
  • She’s known as the golden child in the culinary world, having mastered numerous cuisines.
  • The new recruit quickly became the golden child of the coach.
  • I can't be a substitute for the golden child in the family.
  • Even though he's the goob of the group, he's still their golden child.
  • She's the golden child in the office, always praised by the boss.
  • She excels in both academics and sports, making her the golden child of the school.

Examples of "Golden Child" in Pop Culture

The phrase "golden child" frequently appears in pop culture, demonstrating its broad usage.

Let's explore some instances:

  • "The Golden Child" is a 1986 American comedy film starring Eddie Murphy.
  • Golden Child is a ten-member South Korean boy band under Woollim Entertainment.
  • The Golden Child” is a 2013 mystery novel by British writer Penelope Fitzgerald. This book, which is Fitzgerald’s first work of fiction, tells the story of the ‘Golden Child’ arrival at a London museum.

Other/Different Ways to Say "Golden Child"

The phrase "golden child" has similar expressions that can be used as alternatives.

Here are some of them:

  • Favorite
  • Blue-eyed boy/girl
  • Cherished one
  • Prized individual
  • Apple of one's eye

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Golden Child":

  • What does "golden child" mean?

"Golden child" is a term used to signify an individual who is favored, cherished, and often expected to perform at a high standard.

  • How can I use "golden child" in a sentence?

You can use "golden child" to describe someone who is favored or highly regarded. For example, "She is the golden child of the music industry."

  • Where does the idiom "golden child" come from?

The idiom "golden child" does not have a specific origin. It's an expression that developed over time, using "golden" to symbolize value and "child" to denote a member within a group or family.

  • Does "golden child" imply high expectations?

Yes, "golden child" often implies that high expectations are placed on the individual due to their valued status.

  • Can "golden child" be used in a negative context?

Yes, "golden child" can sometimes be used negatively, particularly when it leads to feelings of resentment or neglect among other members of the group.

  • Is "golden child" a universal term?

While the concept may exist in various cultures and contexts, the exact term "golden child" is primarily used in English-speaking cultures.

  • Can "golden child" be used in formal language?

Yes, "golden child" can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • Can "golden child" refer to adults?

Yes, "golden child" can refer to adults, not just children. It can be applied to anyone who is highly favored within a group.

  • Does "golden child" indicate favoritism?

Yes, "golden child" often indicates favoritism or preferential treatment.

  • Can "golden child" be used to describe an object or concept?

Typically, "golden child" refers to individuals, but it can be extended metaphorically to describe an object or concept that is particularly favored or cherished.

Final Thoughts About "Golden Child"

The term "golden child" serves as a powerful symbol of favoritism and high expectation. It is particularly effective when used to describe someone's status within a family, team, or organization.

To sum it up:

  • "Golden child" implies a person highly favored or valued within a group.
  • It is often associated with high expectations and the pressure to succeed.
  • The term can sometimes lead to negative emotions among other group members who feel less favored.

By using the term "golden child," you can effectively convey the dynamics within a group, especially where favoritism and high expectations play a key role.

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