Not have a bean Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Usage Used in casual conversation, not formal or official situations. When I last saw Jim, he mentioned he didn't have a bean. Pro Tip 2/3British Slang Specifically part of British English; may not be understood widely outside the UK. On my trip to London, everyone kept saying they hadn't got a bean. Pro Tip 3/3Hyperbolic Expression Often an exaggeration; unlikely someone has literally no money at all. I'd love to join you for dinner, but I don't have a bean this week.