Explore English traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-26
Meaning: Verified- Meaning and lesson
The saying praises productive work that leads to prosperity. “Spins gold” figuratively presents successful labour as an activity that turns effort into substantial material gain.
It links diligence with thriving rather than treating labour alone as a guarantee of wealth. The emphasis is on the person whose work proves fruitful, while real prosperity may also depend on conditions beyond individual effort.
- When it is used
Use it to commend someone whose industrious work is visibly bringing success or financial reward. It suits a reflective or proverbial comment on enterprise and achievement, but should not imply that every hard-working person will necessarily prosper.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: He that labours and thrives, spins gold.