up the pole

English

Pronunciation

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Prepositional phrase

up the pole (slang)

1. In favour or good repute; strait-laced.
2. In confusion or error.
3. In trouble or difficulty.
   • 1915, C.J. Dennis, The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke, published 1916, page 13:

     The world 'as got me snouted jist a treat; Crool Forchin's dirty left 'as smote me soul. An' all them joys o' life I 'eld so sweet Is up the pole.

4. (archaic) Drunk.
5. (US, military, dated) Teetotal; not drinking any alcohol.
6. Crazy; at one's wits' end.
7. (Ireland, dated) Pregnant.