Downpipe

v.

Heard in Tipperary

To attempt the impossible or a hopelessly futile task.

In use

Ya may as well try ta shit up a downpipe as weld dat yoke together, pissin agin de wind, dats all yer doin.

Posh English

One may as well attempt to defecate up a downpipe as try to weld that contraption together; you are merely pissing against the wind.