strapped for

Idioms  

1. In need of, as in We're strapped for cash this week. Originating in the mid-1800s as simply strapped, meaning “in need of money,” the term acquired for in the first half of the 1900s. Now the term is also used for other needs, as in I can't give you any more firewood; I'm strapped for it myself.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

strapped for

More from Beth Pinsker: I’m locked into a 10-year annuity and now I’m strapped for cash.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 11, 2026

The company ground back, funding real-estate investment trust Service Properties Trust and data-center company Applied Digital, as well as many companies strapped for cash.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 21, 2026

With many parents strapped for cash and heading into the holidays, it's an extra expense to budget for and an awkward etiquette to negotiate.

From BBC ● Jul. 13, 2026

Of course, if you’re strapped for cash, you might need to look elsewhere.

From Salon ● Mar. 13, 2026

This year, paying Enrique’s smuggler has left her strapped for money.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario