tin god

== English == === Etymology === From tin's figurative sense as "worthless" or "counterfeit" in relation to silver and god's use for idols. === Pronunciation === === Noun === tin god (plural tin gods) (idiomatic) A false god, particularly a petty tyrant, a person who abuses or exceeds their authority over others in petty ways. 1943 March 3, Redacted Dodgeville, Wisconsin, Draft Board member, FBI report: [Frank Lloyd Wright] was regarded by members of the [Taliesin] fellowship as somewhat of an idol, a tin god, or a master, who could do no wrong. === References === “tin, n.”, in OED Online ⁠, Oxford: Oxford University Press, launched 2000. === Anagrams === doting, tin dog