Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Mendicant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ™
Add to dictionary

mendicant

[หˆmษ›ndษชkษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

beggar seeking alms

A mendicant is a person who survives by asking for money or food from strangers. In many cultures, mendicants are considered to be homeless and rely on the generosity of others to meet their basic needs.

Synonyms

beggar, panhandler, vagrant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mendicant

This word is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe someone who relies on begging or charity to survive. It can also refer to members of certain religious orders who depend on alms.

  • The old mendicant sat quietly by the monastery's gate.
  • Medieval towns often had mendicant friars traveling through them, asking for alms.
beggar

This is a common word used to describe someone who asks for money or food on the streets. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of self-sufficiency or an unfortunate situation.

  • The beggar sat on the sidewalk with a cup for coins.
  • Children were taught to be kind to beggars and give them what they could spare.
panhandler

This word is commonly used in American English and often refers to someone who asks strangers for money in public places. It has a somewhat negative connotation.

  • The panhandler approached every passerby, asking for spare change.
  • In the city, panhandlers are commonly seen on busy street corners.
vagrant

This word typically describes someone who has no permanent home and often moves from place to place. It can carry a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of stability and purpose.

  • The vagrant wandered through the town with his possessions in a tattered backpack.
  • Authorities are addressing the issue of vagrants sleeping in public parks.

Examples of usage

  • He lived as a mendicant, wandering from village to village in search of charity.
  • The mendicant approached the passersby with a humble expression, hoping for a few coins.
  • She saw a group of mendicants outside the temple, waiting for donations.
  • The mendicant's ragged clothes and weary appearance touched the hearts of the townspeople.
  • Despite his status as a mendicant, he maintained a sense of dignity and pride.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • During medieval times, mendicant orders, such as the Franciscans, were established to live in poverty and serve the poor.
  • In many cultures, mendicants were seen as both a necessary societal presence and a spiritual calling.
  • The role of mendicants changed significantly with the rise of welfare systems in various countries, altering their visibility in society.

Literature

  • Mendicant characters often symbolize themes of survival, generosity, and the struggle against societal norms in literature.
  • In Charles Dickens' works, mendicants appear frequently, depicting the harsh realities of poverty in Victorian England.
  • Mark Twain's stories often include mendicants as central figures who challenge the perceptions of wealth and morality.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, mendicants hold an esteemed position, representing humility and a deep connection to the community.
  • The concept varies globally; in India, for example, mendicants often lead spiritual lives, collecting alms as part of their religious practice.
  • Different societies have varying attitudes toward mendicants, with some viewing them as a burden while others see them as essential to social compassion.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that societal attitudes towards mendicants can influence their mental health, impacting feelings of worth and belonging.
  • Studies show that individuals who identify as mendicants often experience both social stigma and empathy from others.
  • The act of begging can create complex psychological dynamics, including hope, desperation, and resilience.

Origin of 'mendicant'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'mendicant' comes from the Latin 'mendicans', which means 'begging'.
  • It is derived from 'mendicare', meaning 'to beg', highlighting the action of asking for assistance.
  • The word has been in use since the Middle Ages to describe people who relied on charity for survival.

The word 'mendicant' has its origins in Latin, deriving from the word 'mendicans' which means 'begging'. Throughout history, mendicants have been prevalent in various societies, often associated with religious orders or individuals who have chosen a life of poverty. The concept of mendicancy has evolved over time, reflecting changing social attitudes towards poverty and charity.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,174, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.