PORK BARREL

PRONUNCIATION: (PORK bar-uhl)

MEANING: noun: The spending of government funds on projects designed to ingratiate legislators with their constituents.

ETYMOLOGY: In the beginning, a pork barrel was a barrel for storing pork. Over time, it became synonymous with ready supply of money, and eventually with government projects or appropriations designed to please voters. Sometimes, the term is used, simply, as pork, instead of pork barrel. Earliest documented use: 1705.
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PERK BARREL - like a job jar, only in reverse: stick in your hand and pull out a benefit (compare WORK BARREL)

FORK BARREL - eating utensils enough for the whole city

PORK BARBEL - what pigs use for strength-training