Meaning of Pass the Buck. To pass the buck means to avoid responsibility or blame for something by passing it on to another person, or to let another person do something you were supposed to do. Politicians are often known for passing the buck.

Is pass the buck slang?

What's the origin of the phrase 'Pass the buck'?

The most common use of the word these days is as the slang term for the American dollar.

Why do we say pass the buck?

The Answer:

"Passing the buck" originated from a ritual practiced during card games. Card players used to place a marker, called a "buck," in front of the person who was the dealer. ... Eventually "passing the buck" became synonymous with passing on responsibility.