noun
A structure or enclosure, typically made of metal bars, that is covered in a thin layer of gold or gold-colored material.
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She lived in a gilded cage, surrounded by luxury but unable to experience true freedom.
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Living in that fancy mansion may seem great, but it's like being in a gilded cage.
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The rich and famous may have all the money in the world, but they're still stuck in a gilded cage.
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The high-paying job came with a lot of restrictions, making it feel like a gilded cage.