poor-mouth

1 of 2

verb

ˈpu̇r-ˌmau̇t͟h How to pronounce poor-mouth (audio)
ˈpȯr-,
-ˌmau̇th
poor-mouthed; poor-mouthing; poor-mouths

intransitive verb

: to plead poverty as a defense or excuse

transitive verb

: to speak disparagingly of

poor mouth

2 of 2

noun

: an exaggerated claim of poverty

Examples of poor-mouth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
The analysis offered several explanations for those links between poor mouth health and poor brain health, including the problem of missing teeth, which can impact chewing, which limits the options for healthy food and can even lead to the loss of key nutrients for brain health. Lauren Kent, CNN, 8 July 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'poor-mouth.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

circa 1930, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Noun

1764, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of poor-mouth was in 1764

Dictionary Entries Near poor-mouth

poormaster

poor-mouth

poor mouth

Cite this Entry

“Poor-mouth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poor-mouth. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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