pin money

The phrase "pin money" refers to a small amount of money that is set aside or earned for personal use or discretionary spending. It typically refers to a small amount of extra money that a person has for their own enjoyment or to use for minor expenses or indulgences. The term originated from the practice of women saving small amounts of money, often from their household budget, to buy pins for their clothing, as pins were once expensive and considered a luxury. Nowadays, the phrase is used more broadly to describe any small amount of money that is meant for personal spending.