I don't give a tinker's damn

Meaning

I do not care at all.

Usage

Expresses dismissal of criticism or gossip.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Tinkers repaired pots with melted metal called a damn; the phrase meant even a tinker would not bother.

Appeared in 19th-century American slang and stuck in tough talk.