reach-me-down

[ reech-mee-doun ]

noun

, British.

1. hand-me-down.

reach-me-down

noun

1. 1. often plural a garment that is cheaply ready-made or second-hand
   2. ( as modifier )

      reach-me-down finery

2. plural trousers
3. modifier not original; derivative; stale

   a stock of reach-me-down ideas

Word History and Origins

Origin of reach-me-down¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

It is like buying a reach-me-down suit, which I have never done.

From Project Gutenberg

A drama conceived in this reach-me-down fashion will scarcely have the breath of life in it.

From Project Gutenberg

Every reach-me-down that had been hanging these twenty years flapped about their limbs, hindering their progress.

From Project Gutenberg

And you come to me stinkin' of beer in a reach-me-down overcoat, and pretend you be the law!

From Project Gutenberg