What does “Dutch wife” mean?

"A Dutch wife" means a long, cylindrical pillow that is placed next to a person in bed to provide comfort and support.

What context can I use the in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

Example

I bought a Dutch wife to help me sleep better at night.

Example

She cuddles up to her Dutch wife every night.

Example

He couldn't sleep without his trusty Dutch wife by his side

Is “Dutch wife” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Dutch wife” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Dutch wife” effectively in context?

You can use "Dutch wife" to refer to a long, cylindrical pillow that is placed next to a person in bed to provide comfort and support. For example, if someone asks about your sleeping habits, you might say, 'I bought a "Dutch wife" to help me sleep better at night.'

1Sleeping Comfort
She cuddles up to her Dutch wife every night for a good night's sleep.
She cuddles up to her Dutch wife every night for a good night's sleep.
2Sleeping Aid
He couldn't sleep without his trusty Dutch wife by his side.
He couldn't sleep without his trusty Dutch wife by his side.
3Sleeping Preference
Some people find it more comfortable to sleep with a Dutch wife for added support.
Some people find it more comfortable to sleep with a Dutch wife for added support.

Similar phrases to “Dutch wife”:

Body pillow

A long pillow that provides support and comfort while sleeping

Example

She snuggled up to her body pillow for a restful night's sleep.

Sleeping bolster

A cylindrical pillow used for support and comfort during sleep

Example

He found relief by using a sleeping bolster to alleviate back pain while sleeping.

Sleeping cushion

A soft pillow-like object used for comfort and support during sleep

Example

The sleeping cushion provided extra support for her neck and back while sleeping.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Dutch wife” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Dutch wife" is unknown.

Is “Dutch wife” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Dutch wife" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more specific to discussions about sleeping habits or preferences.

What tone does “Dutch wife” have?

"Dutch wife" conveys a neutral tone. It is a descriptive term used to refer to a specific type of pillow.

Can “Dutch wife” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Dutch wife" is informal and can be used in casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional settings.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to describe the pillow. For example, 'I can't sleep without my "Dutch wife".'

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

body pillow
sleeping bolster
sleeping cushion