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General

coffin dodger

What does coffin dodger mean?

Affectionately cheeky slang for an old patient who has repeatedly pulled through against the odds.

"Ninety-eight and back again — proper coffin dodger."

Origin

British slang for the aged.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'coffin dodger' mean?
It's cheeky slang for a very elderly person, especially one who keeps surviving illnesses against the odds.
Is 'coffin dodger' offensive?
It's usually meant affectionately and even said with admiration, though it references old age so tone matters.
Where does 'coffin dodger' come from?
It's a long-standing British slang term for the aged, implying they keep 'dodging' the coffin.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.