Jerry-built
(adjective)
Poorly constructed or cheaply made.
Origin:
The term jerry-built was originally used in the 19th century to describe badly made or cheaply constructed buildings in the uk, named after the irish name jerry, a term used to describe a common man. it has since evolved to describe anything that is cheaply made or poorly constructed.
Examples:
- The chair was jerry-built and broke under his weight.
- The jerry-built car fell apart after a few months of use.
- The jerry-built structure was not fit for the purpose it was intended for.
- She knew the jerry-built bookshelf wouldn't last long.
- He realized too late that the jerry-built fence wouldn't keep the dogs in.