Mendicancy: meaning, definitions and examples

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mendicancy

[ˈmɛndɪkənsi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

life on the streets

The state of being a beggar; begging as a way of life. Mendicancy is often associated with poverty and homelessness, where individuals rely on the charity of others to survive.

Synonyms

begging, panhandling, vagrancy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mendicancy	This is a more formal and less commonly used term, often found in literature or official documents. It refers to the state of living by begging, highlighting the broader condition rather than the act itself. The rise in mendicancy in urban areas has been a concern for the social services department. He wrote a paper discussing the historical roots of mendicancy in medieval Europe.
begging	This term is commonly used to describe the act of asking for money or food, usually from strangers, due to poverty. It is a general term and can be used in both formal and informal settings. She had no other choice but to resort to begging on the streets. There are laws in place to address the city's increasing problem with begging.
panhandling	This term is typically used in North American English and refers specifically to asking for money in public places. It often carries a slightly informal or conversational tone. Many cities have implemented laws to regulate panhandling near subway stations. The man was detained for panhandling without a permit.
vagrancy	This word generally refers to the state of being homeless and wandering from place to place without a stable residence or employment. It can have a legal or formal implication and sometimes carries a negative connotation. She was arrested for vagrancy after being found sleeping in the park. The government launched a new program to reduce vagrancy and assist homeless individuals.

Examples of usage

Many people turn to mendicancy as a last resort when they have no other means of support.
In some countries, mendicancy is illegal and beggars can face fines or imprisonment.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religious practice

Begging or soliciting alms as a religious act or duty. Mendicancy has a long history in various spiritual traditions, where followers renounce material possessions and rely on the generosity of the community.

Synonyms

alms, almsgiving, charity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mendicancy	Mendicancy refers to the act of begging or being a beggar. It is often used in a more formal or historical context. It typically has a negative connotation. The city's efforts to reduce mendicancy have not been successful. Mendicancy was a common sight in medieval towns.
almsgiving	Almsgiving is the act of giving money or goods to the poor. It is often used in religious or moral contexts and has a positive connotation. Almsgiving is considered a virtuous act in many religions. During the holiday season, many people practice almsgiving.
charity	Charity refers to the voluntary giving of help, typically in the form of money, to those in need. It can be used in general contexts and usually has a positive connotation. She donated a large sum to the local charity. Charity organizations do a lot of good work for the community.
alms	Alms are goods or money given to the poor or needy as an act of charity. It is a more traditional term usually found in historical or religious discussions. The church distributed alms to the poor every Sunday. She gave alms to the beggar sitting at the gate.

Examples of usage

The monks practiced mendicancy as a way to detach themselves from worldly possessions.
Mendicancy was seen as a form of humility and dependence on divine providence.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the Latin word 'mendicans', meaning 'beggar', which is derived from 'mendicare', meaning 'to beg'.
In the 13th century, mendicancy was associated with religious orders, as some monks and nuns lived by asking for alms, living simply to spread their faith.

Social Issues

Mendicancy has been a subject of legislation, with many societies creating laws to control or regulate begging, often viewing it with disdain.
In modern societies, mendicancy can highlight economic disparity, with many people forced into begging due to unemployment or homelessness.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, begging can have a ritualistic aspect, with certain practices around who can beg, when, and what is acceptable to ask for.
Some communities view mendicancy as a remnant of social structures that provide for the less fortunate, while others see it as a challenge to social order.

Literature

The concept of mendicancy often appears in literature as a critique of society, showcasing the struggles of those who live on the fringes.
Charles Dickens frequently addressed issues of poverty and mendicancy in his works, portraying the life and struggles of those in need.

Psychology

Psychologically, the act of begging can be linked to vulnerability, as individuals place themselves in a dependent position, impacting their self-esteem.
Studies show that the reasons behind mendicancy can vary widely, including mental health issues, substance abuse, or sheer necessity for survival.

Translations

Translations of the word "mendicancy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mendicância

🇮🇳 भीख मांगना

🇩🇪 Betteln

🇮🇩 mengemis

🇺🇦 жебрацтво

🇵🇱 żebractwo

🇯🇵 物乞い

🇫🇷 mendicité

🇪🇸 mendicidad

🇹🇷 dilencilik

🇰🇷 구걸

🇸🇦 التسول

🇨🇿 žebrání

🇸🇰 žobranie

🇨🇳 乞讨

🇸🇮 prošnja za miloščino

🇮🇸 betl

🇰🇿 қайыршылық

🇬🇪 მათხოვრობა

🇦🇿 dilənçilik

🇲🇽 mendicidad