Hobos: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe individuals who travel around to find work, especially in rural areas. The term has historical roots from the Great Depression era.

• During the Great Depression, many hobos traveled the countryside looking for any kind of work.
• The book tells the story of hobos who journeyed from town to town by hopping on freight trains.

Refers to individuals who wander from place to place without a permanent home or job, often on foot. It can also have a slightly negative connotation.

• The old tramp wandered into town seeking shelter for the night.
• In classic literature, tramps are often portrayed as wandering souls with no ties or responsibilities.

A more formal term often used in legal or official contexts to describe individuals who have no fixed home and live by begging. It can have a somewhat sterile or bureaucratic tone.

• The city enacted new laws to address the issue of vagrants in public spaces.
• Many vagrants struggle to find resources to improve their living conditions.

Often used negatively to describe individuals who are perceived as lazy and unwilling to work, leading a lifestyle dependent on others for survival.

• He's been living like a bum, lounging around all day without making any effort to find a job.
• Some people unfairly call those struggling with homelessness 'bums'.

This term is used to describe homeless people, especially those who travel from place to place, often used in a historical context or when talking about the early 20th century. It has a negative connotation and is considered outdated and disrespectful.

• During the Great Depression, many hobos traveled across the country in search of work.

This is a general term for a long sandwich with a variety of fillings, similar to a grinder or hero, and is widely recognized across the United States.

• For the party, we ordered a giant submarine sandwich to share with everyone.

Refers to a large sandwich, similar to a sub or hoagie, filled with various ingredients. The term 'hero' is commonly used in New York City and its surrounding areas.

• She bought an Italian hero from the corner market for the picnic.

Commonly refers to a long sandwich made with a crusty roll and filled with meats, cheeses, and other ingredients. The term 'grinder' is mostly used in the New England area of the United States.

• I ordered a meatball grinder for lunch from the local deli.