lap of luxury
Meaning
A situation of great comfort, wealth, and indulgence; living very well with many conveniences.
Origin
The metaphorical “lap” suggests a comfortable place to sit or be held/coddled; by the late 19th century “in the lap of luxury” came to mean being surrounded by wealth and comforts.
Notes
Usually appears as “(live) in the lap of luxury.” It suggests being surrounded by comforts and can carry admiration, envy, or mild sarcasm.
Examples
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After years of scraping by, she suddenly found herself living in the lap of luxury.
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They spent their honeymoon in the lap of luxury at a private villa overlooking the sea.
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Even in retirement, he refuses to live in the lap of luxury and prefers a simple routine.
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The celebrity’s children grew up in the lap of luxury, with chauffeurs and designer clothes.
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The ad promises you can travel in the lap of luxury for less, but there’s always a catch.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Most common fixed pattern: “in the lap of luxury.” Often with verbs like live, be, grow up, find oneself. Article is typically omitted; pluralizing (“laps”) is unnatural.
Synonyms
- live high on the hog
- live like a king
- live the good life
- luxuriate
Antonyms
- live hand to mouth
- be down and out
- live in poverty