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brass razoo

Australian slang for an imaginary coin of absolutely no value — used to emphasise total broke-ness or worthlessness.

ˈbɹæs ɹəˈzoʊDocumented since 1950s1950shistorical57 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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Born ~1950 · no dated citations yet
1950BornToday, 2026

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#1·Apr 28, 2026

Australian slang for an imaginary coin of absolutely no value — used to emphasise total broke-ness or worthlessness. If you haven't got a brass razoo, you are completely skint: not a dollar, not a cent, not even this fictional coin that doesn't exist. The phrase is used in expressions like 'not worth a brass razoo' or 'I don't have a brass razoo.' It's classic Australian deadpan humour — inventing a currency specifically to describe having none of it.

He came back from the casino without a brass razoo to his name and had to borrow bus fare from his mate.
Origin: Australian slang, in use since the early 20th century. 'Razoo' is a fictitious coin of no value; 'brass' emphasises cheapness. Origin of 'razoo' is disputed — possibly from French 'sou' (a small coin) or entirely invented. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 26, 2026

(AU, slang) A fictitious coin of very low value.

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