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UKout at (the) elbows
/ˈaʊt at ðə ˈɛlbəʊz/
/ˈaʊt æt ðə ˈɛlboʊz/wearing clothes that are of poor quality or are worn-out, often because of having no money to afford a better one
What is the origin of the idiom "out at elbows" and when to use it?
The origin of the phrase is believed to come from the physical appearance of the clothes that are worn out at the elbows, which are the parts of a garment that are most frequently used and therefore more prone to wear and tear. The phrase has been in use since at least the 16th century, and was commonly used in literary works from the 17th to the 19th century. It was often used to describe characters who were poor or down on their luck, and was associated with the lower classes of society. Over time, the phrase has come to be used more broadly to refer to anyone who is wearing shabby or unfashionable clothing.
used to refer to someone who does not have enough money and is considered poor by the society's standards
What is the origin of the idiom "out at elbows" and when to use it?
This idiom is used to describe someone who is in a state of poverty or financial hardship, often visible through their worn-out or shabby appearance. It to refer to someone who is experiencing financial hardship or poverty, and their appearance, particularly their worn-out or shabby clothing, reflects their lack of means to afford better attire.
What is the origin of the idiom "out at elbows" and when to use it?
The idiom "out at elbows" originated from the literal description of clothing that is worn-out and shabby, specifically referring to the elbows of a garment that have become visibly frayed or threadbare over time. It can be used to comment on the poor condition of someone's clothing.