out at the elbows

obsolete

1. Wearing shabby, worn out clothing. I think it's time to buy you some new clothes—you're out at the elbows!

2. Worn, shabby, or unkempt, etc. This jacket is so ratty and out at the elbows. Can we please throw it out?

3. Poor; not having much or enough money. I was out at the elbows for several years after college, just making enough money to pay for my rent and a couple of meals a day. They're such a lovely family, but you can tell that they are out at the elbows.

out at elbows

wearing shabby or ragged clothing. dated