Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Guttersnipe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ฆ
Add to dictionary

guttersnipe

[หˆษกสŒtษ™หŒsnaษชp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

informal term

The term 'guttersnipe' is used to refer to a child or young person who is perceived as being from a lower socioeconomic class, often associated with being unkempt or engaging in mischievous behavior. It conveys a sense of disdain or contempt for the individual's background and social standing. Originally, it referred to children who lived in the streets or slums, scavenging for food or treasures. The term can also imply a lack of refinement or education.

Synonyms

ragamuffin, scamp, street urchin, waif.

Examples of usage

  • The guttersnipe from the neighborhood caused trouble again.
  • He was just a guttersnipe, but he had a heart of gold.
  • The film depicted the struggles of a guttersnipe trying to escape his surroundings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The character Oliver Twist in Charles Dickens' novel exemplifies the concept of a guttersnipe, representing the struggles of impoverished street children in Victorian London.
  • In literature, guttersnipes often symbolize resilience and the fight for survival against harsh societal conditions, bringing attention to class disparity.

Cultural Connotations

  • In contemporary slang, 'guttersnipe' sometimes conveys a sense of contempt or judgment towards those living on the margins of society.
  • The term can reflect societal attitudes towards poverty, often coloring perceptions with negativity rather than empathy.

Social Issues

  • Today, urban areas still see kids labeled as guttersnipes due to their living conditions, which highlights ongoing fights for social justice and youth empowerment.
  • The struggles of guttersnipes today mirror historical narratives, often serving as a reminder of the importance of community support for vulnerable populations.

Pop Culture

  • The word has been used in various films and television shows to illustrate gritty urban life, often highlighting the adventures or mischiefs of street-smart children.
  • Musicians and artists have sometimes embraced guttersnipe imagery to convey themes of rebellion, survival, and the harsh realities of life.

Origin of 'guttersnipe'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'guttersnipe' originated in the 19th century, deriving from 'gutter' meaning a low area and 'snipe' denoting a person of little value.
  • It was first used in print in 1851, highlighting its roots in the observation of street life during that time.

The term 'guttersnipe' emerged in the early 19th century, deriving from the combination of 'gutter', which refers to a channel for water, often found in urban streets, and 'snipe', which has been used in various contexts but often refers to a small, elusive bird hunted for sport. The juxtaposition of these terms evokes an image of a scruffy child foraging in the dirty streets, metaphorically 'sniping' for survival amid the refuse of society. Initially, it was used generically to describe homeless or poor street children, but it gradually took on a more derogatory connotation, suggesting not just poverty or homelessness, but also a lack of civility or upstanding behavior. Over time, 'guttersnipe' has appeared in literature and is used in common parlance to depict individuals who are seen as unrefined or troublesome, often with a sense of nostalgia for the struggles of the underclass.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,196, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.