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Hobo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hobo

[ˈhoʊ.boʊ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

homeless person

A hobo is a homeless person, typically one who travels from place to place in search of work.

Synonyms

drifter, tramp, vagabond.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hobo

Used to describe someone who travels frequently and often lives in makeshift accommodations, typically looking for work. Historically associated with the railroads in the United States.

  • The hobo jumped off the train, hoping to find work in the next town.
  • During the Great Depression, hobos roamed the countryside in search of odd jobs.
tramp

Often used to describe a person who wanders without a permanent home or job, usually traveling on foot. Historically used with a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of ambition.

  • The tramp walked aimlessly through the streets, begging for food.
  • In the old movies, the tramp was often portrayed as a lovable rogue.
vagabond

Describes someone who leads a wandering life, often viewed as a romantic or adventurous figure. However, it can also have a negative connotation, suggesting laziness or criminal behavior.

  • Her dream was to become a vagabond, exploring new places and meeting new people.
  • The authorities arrested the vagabond, believing him to be involved in petty theft.
drifter

Refers to an individual who moves from place to place without any long-term plans or stability. Can imply a lack of responsibility or direction.

  • He was seen as a drifter, never staying in one place for too long.
  • She became a drifter after losing her job, moving from town to town with no particular destination.

Examples of usage

  • The hobo sat by the railroad tracks with a sign asking for help.
  • During the Great Depression, many people became hobos in search of employment.
Context #2 | Noun

vagrant

A hobo is a vagrant or homeless person who is often associated with a transient lifestyle and poverty.

Synonyms

beggar, bum, wanderer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hobo

Used to describe a person who travels from place to place, usually without a home or job. Often associated with the early 20th century in America.

  • The hobo jumped onto the moving train, searching for a new place to find work
bum

A derogatory term for someone perceived as lazy or unwilling to work, often homeless. It can be very offensive.

  • He called the man a bum, criticizing him for not having a job
wanderer

Describes someone who travels around without a fixed home, often with a sense of adventure or searching for something. It's more poetic and neutral.

  • The wanderer traveled across the country, seeking new experiences and landscapes
beggar

Refers to a person who asks for money or food from strangers, often seen on the streets. It's a neutral term, but can sound a bit outdated.

  • The beggar sat on the corner, holding up a sign asking for help

Examples of usage

  • The city streets were filled with hobos looking for shelter and food.
  • Some people romanticize the life of a hobo, seeing it as a form of freedom.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • During the Great Depression in the 1930s, many people became hobos due to economic hardships.
  • Hobos traveled by freight trains, creating a unique culture with their own symbols, songs, and community networks.

Pop Culture

  • Hobos are often romanticized in films and literature, seen as free spirits embarking on adventures.
  • The character of the 'hobo' has appeared in various cartoons and movies, such as the Disney film 'Dumbo,' where Jim Crow represents this figure.

Social Perspectives

  • Hobos have been considered a symbol of resilience and independence despite facing societal challenges.
  • The hobo lifestyle has sparked discussions about homelessness, migration, and the search for better opportunities.

Artistic Representation

  • Hobos have inspired numerous works of art, from paintings to music, focusing on their journeys and experiences.
  • Folk songs about hobos contributed to the genre of American folk music, capturing their stories and struggles.

Origin of 'hobo'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hobo' is believed to originate from the late 19th century, possibly from 'hoe-boy,' referring to a farm worker.
  • Another theory suggests it comes from the term 'homeward bound,' as many would travel back home after seeking work.

The term 'hobo' originated in the Western United States around the late 19th century. It is believed to have derived from the term 'hoe-boy,' which referred to migrant workers who used hoes to work the fields. Over time, 'hoe-boy' evolved into 'hobo,' describing individuals who traveled and worked seasonally. The lifestyle of hobos became more prevalent during the Great Depression when many people were forced to wander in search of work and shelter.

See also: hobos.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,042 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.