Beggar: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to refer to a person who asks for money or food. While not necessarily negative, it can sometimes be perceived as insensitive.

• She gave some change to the beggar on the street corner.
• The city has many beggars near the subway station.

Commonly used in North America, specifically to describe someone who asks for money in public places. Often carries a slightly negative or informal connotation.

• Panhandlers are often seen near the busy intersections.
• He was approached by a panhandler asking for spare change.

A more respectful and accurate term that emphasizes the lack of stable housing rather than the act of begging.

• A homeless person was sleeping in the park last night.
• The shelter provides meals for homeless people.

An older or more formal term that usually refers to someone involved in religious begging. Rarely used in everyday conversation.

• The mendicant wandered from town to town, living on charity.
• In medieval times, mendicants were common in many cities.

When someone is making an emotional appeal or a legal request.

• He pleaded with his parents to let him stay out late.
• The defendant pleaded not guilty in court.

Used when someone is pleading with great emotion or desperation, often in situations with high stakes.

• She implored the doctor to save her child's life.
• He implored his friend not to leave the country.

Used in a formal or literary context, when making an earnest request or appeal.

• I beseech you to reconsider your decision.
• She beseeched him to stay a little longer.