tinker's dam

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Explanation of "Tinker's Dam"

Definition:
The phrase "tinker's dam" refers to something that has very little value or importance. When someone says that something is "not worth a tinker's dam," they mean it is not worth anything at all.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "tinker's dam" can be used to critique the importance of promises or commitments. For example: - "His assurances about finishing the project on time are worth a tinker's dam, given his track record."

Word Variants:

• The term "tinker" historically refers to a person who repairs metal objects, often traveling around. The phrase "tinker's dam" refers to a small dam made by a tinker to hold water while working, which was of little value.

Different Meanings:

The term "tinker" itself has a broader meaning beyond the phrase: 1. As a noun, it refers to someone who repairs pots and pans. 2. As a verb, it means to make small changes or adjustments to something in a casual or experimental way.

Synonyms:

• Not worth a dime
• Not worth a red cent
• Worthless
• Insignificant
• Trivial

Related Idioms:

• "Not worth a hill of beans" – Similar meaning, indicating something is of no value.
• "Not worth the paper it's printed on" – Suggests that a document (like a contract) has no value.

Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific phrasal verbs associated with "tinker's dam," you might encounter related phrases like: - "Give a damn" – To care about something. (e.g., "I don’t give a damn about that issue.")

Summary:

"Tinker's dam" is an informal English expression used to describe something that is considered worthless or of little importance.

Academic

Noun

1. something of little value
   • his promise is not worth a damn
   • not worth one red cent
   • not worth shucks

Synonyms

• damn
• darn
• hoot
• red cent
• shit
• shucks
• tinker's damn