Originating in the mid-1800s as simply strapped, meaning “in need of money,” the term acquired for in the first half of the 1900s. Now the term is also used for other needs, as in I can't give you any more firewood; I'm strapped for it myself.

What does strapped mean in British?

informal. /stræpt/ uk. /stræpt/ not having enough money: I'd love to come to Hawaii with you, but I'm a little strapped (for cash).

What does it mean when someone says they're strapped?

(stræpt ) adjective [oft ADJ for n, adv ADJ] If someone is strapped for money, they do not have enough money to buy or pay for the things they want or need. My husband and I are really strapped for cash. See also cash-strapped.