oily rag

English

Etymology

Named for such employees often carrying a rag with them to wipe up spillages of oil or grease.

Pronunciation

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Noun

oily rag (plural oily rags)

1. (derogatory slang) An employee in a menial, unskilled role in a factory or workshop.
2. (Cockney rhyming slang) A cigarette - by way of fag.