source of revenue; financial supporter
Refers to a person, organization, or thing that provides a steady flow of money. Often used in contexts like business, politics, or personal finance.
For that politician, the local construction company is an important source of revenue.
He uses his parents as a financial supporter.
Common spelling using 金 (money) and づる (vine/connection).
Alternate kanji spelling using 蔓 (vine); less common but still seen.
Compound of 金 (money) and 蔓/づる (vine). The vine metaphor suggests something that can be 'tapped' or 'milked' for money.