Where did the idiom bread and butter originate from?

Answer 1

That would depend on which way it is being used. There are two ways to use Bread and Butter. The most common way is to use it as an idiom for one's livelihood. That company is your family's Bread and Butter. This simply alludes to the fact that without a means to make a living you can't eat. The second way is the superstitious idea that if something comes between a couple while they are walking one of them says, Bread and Butter. Alluding to the impossible task of separating butter once it has been applied to bread. By saying Bread and Butter it means nothing can come between them. These are common themes and likely started simultaneously in different places.

Answer 2

To refer to something as your " bread and butter " means it is a staple or fundamental to your life ... as necessary as food ... or your profession or "meal ticket" .... by Franklelandjohnson

Answer 3

Your bread and butter is your primary source of income (which puts food on your table).

Answer 4

It means the basics - if you get the basics right then the rest will be fine.

Answer 5

Basic necessity for livelyhood

Answer 6

The main thing that makes you money.