Pissed as a handcart

[dunlop]

where did this saying come from???

[aristotle]

I think you've just invented it.

[dunlop]

i guess it must be a northern thing mr aristotle over there

[Quizmonster]

Quite a few of the phrases used to mean 'drunk' are utterly meaningless...and none more so than this one! Even if it is in general use - I've never heard of it myself - it is highly unlikely that you will ever discover its actual source.

[naz_nomad]

Probably from the traditional handcarts which, when not being pushed / pulled along would rest at an angle due to the handles being on the ground.


rather like this http://www.mkheritage.co.uk/ttm/handcart.jpg

[strugglin']

I think it is more likely that a badly loaded wheelcart would tend to wander when pushed. Rather than travel in a straight line.

[naz_nomad]

no, it's not

[strugglin']

why not?

[JillP]

I don't know where the saying came from, but I like it!

[azooza]

'***' in this context has two meanings - 1) Drunk 2) Out of alignment. This phrase has been around for decades.