Dog in the Manger

What does the idiom “Dog in the Manger” mean?

Definition:

A person who prevents others from using something, even though the person himself or herself does not want it

For example:

“Bobby is being a dog in the manger—he won’t let the other kids play with his ball, even though he never uses it.”

Notes:

This idiom originates with a fable by Aesop about a dog who sleeps on straw that sheep could otherwise eat.

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