out at (the) elbows
01
used to refer to someone who does not have enough money and is considered poor by the society's standards
Idiom
例
Despite his talent, the struggling artist lived out at the elbows, barely making ends meet.
02
(of a piece of clothing) looking shabby and worn-out
Idiom例
Last year, her dress was out at the elbows, exhibiting signs of wear with worn patches and loose threads.
