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Meaning of 'Rusty needle'

What does the saying 'Rusty needle' mean?

Idiom: Rusty needle

Meaning:

When something is described as a rusty needle, it is badly damaged but still works, or if someone very is sick or tired but still manages to do things at a fairly good level. An alternative form is "a tarnished needle".
Country: International English | Subject Area: General | Usage Type: Both or All Words Used
All idioms have been editorially reviewed. Submitted idioms may have been edited for correctness and completeness.
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