black thumb
The term "black thumb" contrasts with "green thumb" and is often used humorously to describe someone's poor gardening skills.
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Definition
B2Gardening
(informal, idiomatic)A person who is notably unsuccessful at gardening or keeping plants alive.
Example
- Despite her best efforts, her black thumb meant that all her houseplants eventually died.
- He jokes about his black thumb whenever he sees a wilting plant.
B2General Care
(informal, idiomatic)An inability to make animals or plants in one's care thrive.
Example
- His black thumb extends to pets too; even his fish didn't last long.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "black thumb":