(as|) poor as a church [mouse]
1
severely lacking money
The idiom "as poor as a church mouse" dates back to the 17th century. This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely poor, having very little money or possessions.
- After losing his job, he became as poor as a church mouse, unable to afford basic necessities.
- Growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood, she was as poor as a church mouse and faced numerous challenges.
- The elderly widow, living alone on a meager pension, was as poor as a church mouse, but she managed to get by.
- The small farming community was as poor as church mice, relying on meager harvests for survival.