built like a brick shithouse
English
editAlternative forms
editEtymology
editFrom the figurative extension of the idea that an outhouse is overbuilt if one builds it with bricks.
Pronunciation
editAudio (General Australian): (file) Audio (General Australian): (file)
Adjective
editbuilt like a brick shithouse (not comparable)
- (simile, idiomatic, colloquial, vulgar) (Of a man) Having a muscular body, particularly with well-developed muscles of the chest, arms and abdominals.
- Synonyms: see Thesaurus:strapping
- (US, Canada, simile, idiomatic, colloquial, vulgar) (Of a woman) Having an athletic or muscular body; often implying also having large breasts or an attractive body.
- (simile, colloquial, vulgar) (Of an object) Exceptionally well constructed; strong or tough; overbuilt or overengineered.
Usage notes
edit- Generally used in reference to a person, but may also be used to describe cars, boats, buildings, etc. Of a man, also implies a generally large, robust and solid physique, if perhaps rotund. Of a woman, implies overbuilt for the purpose, more effectively, or handsomely built than is strictly necessary.