MOTHER LODE Meaning and
Definition
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Mother lode refers to a rich and abundant source or supply of something, typically valuable resources like precious metals or minerals, especially when discovered unexpectedly or in a concentrated form. The term originated from mining jargon and is most commonly associated with the discovery of gold or silver deposits during the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s.
In a literal sense, mother lode refers to the principal vein or deposit of ore in a mining region, which is considered the main source of the valuable mineral. The discovery of a mother lode was greatly coveted by miners as it promised substantial financial gain and the potential for prosperity. Due to its high concentration of the desired mineral, the mother lode represents the ultimate prize in the mining industry.
Beyond mining, mother lode has also come to symbolize any substantial find or rich source of something significant. It is often used metaphorically to describe a treasure trove or a situation where a vast quantity of something valuable is uncovered unexpectedly, such as an artistic masterpiece in a forgotten collection or a breakthrough scientific innovation. The term conveys a sense of great fortune, abundance, and opportunity.
Common Misspellings for MOTHER LODE
- nother lode
- kother lode
- jother lode
- mither lode
- mkther lode
- mlther lode
- mpther lode
- m0ther lode
- m9ther lode
- morher lode
- mofher lode
- mogher lode
- moyher lode
- mo6her lode
- mo5her lode
- motger lode
- motber lode
- motner lode
- motjer lode
Etymology of MOTHER LODE
The term "mother lode" originated in the context of mining during the California Gold Rush in the mid-19th century. It is derived from the word "lode", which refers to a deposit of ore, usually gold or silver, inside a vein of quartz or other rock. The use of "mother" in "mother lode" conveys the idea that this particular lode is the main, largest, or most important source of valuable minerals within a given mining area. The word "mother" in this context can be traced back to its metaphorical use, where it signifies something that produces or gives birth to other things, similar to how the mother lode provides the raw materials for gold or silver extraction.
Idioms with the word MOTHER LODE
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a mother lode of sth
The idiom "a mother lode of something" refers to a large or abundant supply or source of something valuable, often metaphorically compared to a rich vein of ore or mineral deposits in a mine. It is commonly used to describe an exceptional or unexpected amount or quality of something desired or sought after.
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mother lode
The mother lode is a principal vein or zone of gold or silver ore, from which smaller veins or mines are found. In idiomatic usage, mother lode refers to a rich or valuable source of something.
Similar spelling words for MOTHER LODE
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