Definition & Meaning of "Out of pocket"

number out of pocket

/nˈʌm ˌaʊtəv pˈɒkɪt/

/nˈʌm ˌaʊɾəv pˈɑːkɪt/

number out of pocket

PHRASE

used to say that an amount of money was lost due to a transaction

{num} out of pocket definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "out of pocket" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "out of pocket" can be traced back to the world of finance and accounting. In this context, "pocket" refers to one's personal funds or resources. This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone has incurred an expense or loss and had to use their own money to cover the cost.

out of pocket

/ˌaʊtəv pˈɒkɪt/

/ˌaʊɾəv pˈɑːkɪt/

out of pocket

PHRASE

used for saying that a cost is paid by a person themselves instead of an organization or fund

What is the origin of the idiom "out of pocket" and when to use it?

The idiom "out of pocket" has its origins in the early 18th century. The term "pocket" here refers to a place where money is kept or carried. This phrase is used to describe a financial situation where someone is short of money or has incurred expenses that are not reimbursed or covered by someone else.