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
Exempel
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
IdiomExempel
Last year, her dress was out at the elbows, exhibiting signs of wear with worn patches and loose threads.
