What it means
You say something's on its last legs when it's still just about functioning, but only by sheer stubbornness and a bit of luck. It's perfect for old cars, dodgy appliances, worn-out clothes, or even yourself after you've been dragged through the week. There's often a scruffy little tenderness in it too, like you're roasting the thing while still respecting its service.
Usage examples
"The old washing machine is on its last legs, it groans like a ghost and leaves a puddle every single cycle."
"The old kettle is on its last legs, takes ten minutes to boil and rattles like it is about to take off."
"My trainers are on their last legs, the sole flaps every step and I leave a little trail of rubber behind me."
"That van’s on its last legs, mate. You have to sweet-talk it before it’ll start in the morning."
"I’m on my last legs after that double shift, so if anyone says gym, they can jog on."
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Where it comes from
This idiom goes back centuries in English. It first described people or animals so weak they could barely stay standing. From there it slid naturally onto objects that still work, but only just. That’s why it now fits anything near the end of its useful life, from bodies to boilers.
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