as slow as molesses in January

[ostap77]

Since I don't have the context I can't give it to you. I'd like to know the meaning of the idiom. What does it mean "molasses"?

[SoothingDave]

Molasses is a very thick syrup derived from sugar cane. When cold, it is even more viscous (slow to pour).

[ostap77]

Molasses is a very thick syrup derived from sugar cane. When cold, it is even more viscous (slow to pour).

Do you guys use this idiom?

[bhaisahab]

Do you guys use this idiom?

I've never heard it before.

[SoothingDave]

Do you guys use this idiom?

I've heard similar before.

[Barb_D]

Heard it, use it.

With and without the "in January" part.

You're as slow as molasses. Get a move on!

[Rover_KE]

I've never heard it before.

Neither have I.

[Barb_D]

Does the UK use molasses much? Could be why. I think it's a "New World" product more than European. The reverse of Nutella.

[5jj]

Does the UK use molasses much? Could be why. I think it's a "New World" product more than European. The reverse of Nutella.

No

[Ouisch]

I'm presuming that this idiom is used more frequently in AmE in cold-weather states; that is, areas that experience below-zero temperatures during the winter months. Growing up in Michigan, which often has bitterly cold winters, I heard "slow as molasses in January" more times than I can count, but I doubt that the phrase was used as frequently in, say, Texas or Arizona households.