Phrase guide

wrong side of the tracks

noun · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

The part of town that is not inhabited by the wealthy. An area where the working class, poor or extremely poor live.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • He grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, but he made a success of himself.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Originated from municipalities where the sections were divided by railway tracks.

Across languages

Translations

2 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: laitakaupunki — poor part of town
  • Polish: slums — poor part of town