Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

bite-the-hand-that-feeds-you

idiom

/baɪt ðə hænd ðæt fiːdz juː/

Definition

To harm or show ingratitude towards someone who provides help or support.

Examples

It’s unwise to bite the hand that feeds you; being disrespectful to your employer may cost you your job.
She was warned not to bite the hand that feeds her after she insulted her mentor.
He realized that he was biting the hand that feeds him when he criticized the organization that helps him.

Meaning

This phrase refers to the act of being ungrateful or retaliating against someone who is taking care of you or supporting you, usually in a way that ultimately harms your own well-being.