Definition of beggar

beggarnoun

Bắt đầu

/ˈbeɡə(r)//ˈbeɡər/

The word "beggar" has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It originated from the Old Norse word "bæggar", meaning "to move the mouth" or "to beg". This Norse term was likely derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*bagiz", which means "to move the mouth" or "to speak". During the Middle English period (circa 1100-1500), the word "beggar" evolved from the Old English word "beccian", meaning "to beg". The term initially referred to anyone who begged or petitioned for something, not just those who were poverty-stricken. Over time, the meaning of "beggar" narrowed to specifically denote a person who asks for alms or charity due to poverty or need. Today, the word is widely used to describe individuals who beg on the streets, in public places, or online. Despite its nuanced evolution, the core concept of "beggar" remains rooted in the idea of asking for assistance or charity.

namespace

a person who lives by asking people for money or food

một người sống bằng cách xin tiền hoặc thức ăn của người khác

Example:
  • beggars sleeping on the pavement

    người ăn xin ngủ trên vỉa hè

used with an adjective to describe somebody in a particular way

được sử dụng với một tính từ để mô tả ai đó theo một cách cụ thể

Example:
  • Aren't you dressed yet, you lazy beggar?

    Cậu vẫn chưa mặc quần áo à, đồ ăn xin lười biếng?

Idioms

beggars can’t be choosers
(saying)people say beggars can’t be choosers when there is no choice and somebody must be satisfied with what is available
if wishes were horses, beggars would/might ride
(saying)wishing for something does not make it happen