The term often implies disapproval of excessive government involvement. He argues that helmet laws for adults are just more nanny state meddling.
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Political Debate
Used in political arguments to criticize opponents' policies as overcontrolling. The opposition decried the new curfew as nanny state overreach.
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Not Always Literal
Sometimes used metaphorically to describe any overprotective behavior, not just by governments. My mother's constant advice felt like a nanny state at home.