breadwinner
nounUK /ˈbrɛdˌwɪnə/
US /ˈbrɛdˌwɪnər/
The person in a family who earns the money to buy food and things everyone needs.
After Dad lost his job, Mom became the main breadwinner for the family.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The member of a group or team whose work brings in most of the money or success.
She is the breadwinner of the band, writing all their hit songs.
3. A person whose earnings support dependents, such as children or elderly parents.
As the sole breadwinner, he worked two jobs to support his three kids.
4. The primary source of income for a household or organization.
Tourism is the breadwinner of this small coastal town.