Cross somebody’s palm with silver

Pro Tip 1/3

This phrase is frequently used in a non-literal sense to imply a bribe or exchange for secrets.

To get the inside scoop, I had to cross his palm with silver.

Pro Tip 2/3

The phrase originates from older times when silver coins were common currency.

In historical novels, you'll often find characters crossing palms with silver.

Pro Tip 3/3

The idiom is considered old-fashioned and can lend a period feel to the language.

He crossed the mystic's palm with silver, as was done in ancient tales.