   Poor as DirtIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "poor as dirt" means extremely poor. It’s a plain, down-home saying that compares being broke to having nothing more than the dirt under your feet. #SouthernSayings #Appalachia #People&Relationships #Southern #FarmTalk Hillbilly Dude Says...  Usually said as, 'we's poor as dirt growin’ up' - but I think this one may be one that people say all over here and there. Pronunciation[POHR az DERT] Meaning & Usage- Extremely poor (adjective phrase, figurative)
Mae:
How bad off were y’all?
Earl:
Bad - poor as dirt.★ "Poor as dirt" is one of the simplest ways Southerners describe hard times. Dirt’s everywhere, but it ain’t worth a penny. ★ OriginThe phrase has roots in plain folk talk: dirt has no value, so being "poor as dirt" meant utterly broke. It became especially common in Southern and Appalachian speech during times of hardship like the Depression. NotesStill widely used in the South and Appalachia, especially among older speakers. Known elsewhere, but in the South it feels most at home, carrying the weight of lived experience. Say It Like a SouthernerSaid plain: "poor as dirt." Quick and flat, often stretched: "poooor as dirt." | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
Slang and folklore change from place to place - this is how I know it. Read the full disclaimer and terms of use →
© Hillbilly Slang | Original audio and content may not be reused without permission. Keeping the Mountains Talking 'Til The Cows Come Home