waltz Matilda

waltz Matilda

To travel around jobless and homeless, with one's possession tied up in a bundle and typically carried on a stick over one's shoulder. Primarily heard in Australia. Many were left with nothing after the war, forced to waltz Matilda across the country in search of work.
See also: waltz
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

waltz (or walk) Matilda

carry a bundle of your personal possessions as you travel the roads. Australian
The name Matilda was one of a number of names given to the swag or pack carried by bushmen in Australia. The expression was famously used by A. B. (‘Banjo’) Paterson ( 1864–1941 ) in his 1903 song ‘Waltzing Matilda’.
See also: waltz
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

waltz Matilda

Australian
To travel about, especially on foot, carrying a swag.
See also: waltz
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • at doorstep
  • at (one's) doorstep
  • (from) top to toe
  • at (one's) expense
  • at expense
  • at somebody's expense
  • at someone's expense
  • be remembered as (something)
  • be remembered as/for something
  • be in somebody's good graces