This is definitely one of those expressions that needs to be taken seriously and with the true roots in mind. It is not an expression that can change to suit OUR time. (Using the expression = bad, knowing it and
philosophizing about it = good)
A formal definition: "a concealed motive or unknown factor affecting a situation in an adverse way." Or simply: "something suspicious or wrong."
Add this: Quite possibly during the
Underground Railroad, assuming we're together on this that it was a good thing to help free slaves, a "nigger in the woodpile" was a good because they were in a hiding place because bad folks were about- There's no need to hide if all around were good people, supporting the
Underground Railroad and its sympathizers!!! Soooooo, better to be in the woodpile than shackles! ...this complicates the meaning of the term, but good to think about.
Classic meaning: "Ever since the new boss has been here we've not known much about the company's
restructuring, he's a nigger in the woodpile, I hope I'm not about to get fired!"
My theoretical meaning: "The new boss is a
fucking asshole, I'm glad the human resource person is full of
integrity, I know those of us who are good workers will be fine- we're like niggers in a woodpile around that asshole."
