give (someone) the shirt off (one's) back
(redirected from give them the shirt off back)give (someone) the shirt off (one's) back
To act in a very generous and selfless manner. I'm not surprised that Tammy loaned you money—she would give anyone the shirt off her back.
give someone the shirt off one's back
Fig. to give anything that is asked for, no matter the sacrifice required. Tom would give any of his old army buddies the shirt off his back. You can always count on Mark when you're in trouble; he'd give you the shirt off his back.
give the shirt off one's back
Give anything and everything one possesses. For example, Tom is truly generous-he'll give you the shirt off his back. This hyperbolic idiom was first recorded in 1771.