nigger in the woodpile


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nigger in the woodpile

An outdated and highly offensive phrase that was used to describe something suspicious.
See also: nigger
References in periodicals archive ?
As the main focus of the narrative is on the interaction of authority and the seamen/the hoi poloi, he is meant to be only a catalyst, the nigger in the woodpile.
Racism and The Nigger of the "Narcissus"
Until one can be certain that the police are going to do the job properly and security can be passed over to them, that I think is the nigger in the woodpile at the moment.
BBC 'sorry' after racial gaffe by retired general
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