The Village Idiom

smell like a tart's handbag

An idiom that describes a strong, unpleasant smell. It compares the odor to that of a promiscuous woman's handbag, suggesting a mixture of various fragrances and conditions.

Vulgar slang · Filed under S

In a sentence

  • After spending the whole day cleaning the house without taking a shower, I could say "I really smell like a tart's handbag.
  • When someone forgets to put on deodorant and has a strong body odor, you could comment "You smell like a tart's handbag.
  • If you walk into a room with a foul smell, you might say "This room smells like a tart's handbag.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "smell like a tart's handbag" is a colorful expression that is primarily used in British English. While it is not as widely known or used in American English, it is still worth exploring due to its intriguing nature.

One fact about this idiom is that it is considered to be rather crude and vulgar in its original form. The term "tart" is a slang term for a prostitute, which adds a strong sexual connotation to the idiom. The use of the word "handbag" in this context emphasizes the association with the world of sex work.

This idiom is often used to describe a strong or overwhelming odor, implying a mixture of aromas that are not pleasant. The phrase implies a certain level of uncleanliness or unsavoriness, likely due to the negative stereotype associated with the world of sex work. It is important to note that the idiom is not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a figurative expression.

While it is unclear exactly when and where this idiom originated, it is believed to have been in use since at least the mid-20th century. It is thought to have emerged in British slang, possibly originating from the theatrical world or the criminal underworld where such language was prevalent.

The idiom's colorful and provocative nature has led to its use in various forms of literature, particularly in British literature, where it adds a touch of risqué humor or adds an element of shock value. The idiom's usage in this context serves to create vivid imagery and evoke strong reactions from readers.

Lastly, there is the idiom "smell of the shop," which means to have a distinctive scent or smell associated with a certain place or occupation. This idiom can be linked to the original idiom as both involve a particular odor or scent, although the association with sex work gives "smell like a tart's handbag" a more specific and provocative meaning.

It is worth mentioning that the idiom is not commonly used in polite or formal settings due to its sexual connotations and potential offensiveness. However, it can still be encountered in more informal or colloquial environments, particularly in British English-speaking regions.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.