clogs to clogs in three generations
proverbEtymology From the common use of clogs by manual workers in north England and following the style of similar phrases which have been attested since 1700. The particular phrasing is perhaps of Lancashire origin. Compare shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations.
1
UK Wealth earned in one generation seldom lasts through the third (grandchild's) generation.
- Synonyms
- shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations, wealth does not survive three generations, sandals to sandals in three generations, the third generation ruins the house, stables to stars to stables, goon to Grange to goon