for the birds
Not deserving serious consideration; unimportant; useless, worthless.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I think this boring movie is for the birds.”
“This cheap umbrella is for the birds because it breaks in the wind.”
“Waiting in this long line for a tiny cupcake is for the birds.”
“He quit his job because he felt the new company rules were for the birds.”
“She decided to stop following that strict diet because she realized the complicated meal plans were for the birds.”
“My brother says that playing video games is for the birds, but I think they are a great way to relax.”
“The committee dismissed the proposal as being for the birds, arguing that it lacked any practical value for the organization.”
disputed origin
Originally United States Army slang, the phrase is said to be derived from the sight of birds pecking at the undigested seeds found in horse and cattle dung. While the exact date of its emergence is not recorded, the story persists that the expression equates the subject at hand to such droppings, suggesting it is fit only for the attention of scavenging birds.
- 01
a little bird told me
I received the information from a source which I am not prepared to disclose.
- 02
bird in the bosom
A secret pledge that one makes for another.
- 03
bird of ill omen
A person who brings bad news.
- 04
bird of one's own brain
One's own idea or conception.
- 05
birds and bees
Informal education about sex.
- 06
birds of a feather
People having similar characters, backgrounds, interests, or beliefs.
- 07
birds of a feather flock together
People of similar character, background or taste tend to congregate or associate with one another; it is easier to establish friendships with people that one has a lot in common with.
- 08
charm the birds from the trees
To behave in a very charming manner.
Last updated August 10, 2026