1
general::
1. A total loss, as in They've changed the currency, so these old coins are a dead loss. [Early 1700s] 2. A worthless person or thing; also, an utter waste of time. For example, With an injured knee he's a dead loss to the team, or It rained every day, so our week at the beach was a dead loss. [1920s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): a dead loss
a total loss. • My investment was a dead loss. • This car is a dead loss after the accident.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs