Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
off-the-back-of-a-lorry
idiomatic expression
ˈɒf ðə bæk ɒv ə ˈlʌri
Definition
A phrase used to describe goods that are obtained illegally, often implying theft or dishonesty.
Examples
- He bought a new TV off-the-back-of-a-lorry, so he got it at a very low price.
- They were selling bikes that looked like they might have been off-the-back-of-a-lorry.
- She warned him that the electronics market is full of items off-the-back-of-a-lorry.
Meaning
When something is said to be ‘off-the-back-of-a-lorry,’ it suggests that the item in question was acquired in a questionable manner, typically by stealing or trafficking. This idiomatic expression is used mainly in British English.
Synonyms
- Stolen goods
- Illegally acquired
- Black market items
