Dirt poor
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Weight
The phrase carries a strong emotional charge, emphasizing a tough situation. 
Even though he's now successful, his past as a dirt poor child still affects him.
Pro Tip 2/3Informal Tone
Used in casual conversations; may be disrespectful in formal contexts. 
She jokingly referred to her college days, saying she was dirt poor.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Often implies a rural or humble upbringing in cultural representations. 
In his autobiography, he recounts his dirt poor origins on a small farm.