# for the birds

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/for-the-birds
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Not deserving serious consideration; unimportant; useless, worthless.

## Examples

- 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.

## 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. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.