Panhandling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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panhandling
[หpรฆnหhรฆndlษชล ]
Definitions
on the street
The act of begging for money or food in a public place.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| panhandling |
Typically used in the context of someone asking for money or food in public places, such as on the streets or outside stores. It's a colloquial term often heard in the United States.
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| begging |
This is a more general term for asking for help, money, or food, and can be used in many contexts, including serious or desperate situations. It can also be used metaphorically.
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| mendicancy |
A formal term often used in academic or official contexts to describe the act of begging, especially in historical or religious contexts. Rarely used in everyday conversation.
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| bumming |
Colloquial and often has a negative connotation. It usually implies asking for something, typically money or cigarettes, in an informal or lazy way.
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Examples of usage
- The city has implemented measures to reduce panhandling on the streets.
- Panhandling is a common sight in urban areas.
- She resorted to panhandling after losing her job.
charitable organizations
The practice of requesting donations or funds from individuals or organizations for a specific cause or charity.
Synonyms
collection, fundraising, solicitation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| panhandling |
This word is used when someone is asking for money, usually in a public place, without offering anything in return. It often has a negative connotation.
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| fundraising |
This word is used in the context of organizing events or campaigns to raise money for a cause, usually associated with charities, schools, or other non-profit organizations.
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| solicitation |
This term is used for the act of requesting donations, contributions, or support in a formal or commercial manner. It can have a legal or slightly business-oriented tone.
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| collection |
This term is used when gathering money or items, often for a specific purpose or cause. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.
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Examples of usage
- The charity relies on panhandling to raise money for their cause.
- He engaged in panhandling to support the local homeless shelter.
- Panhandling can be an effective way to raise awareness and funds for important causes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have varying attitudes toward panhandling; in some places, it's seen as a normal part of community help.
- In many regions, panhandling is legal and protected as a form of free speech, albeit with local regulations.
- Art and literature sometimes portray panhandlers to spark dialogue about social issues and compassion.
Legal Aspects
- Many cities have laws regarding where and how panhandling can occur, often balancing public order and individual rights.
- Some places have implemented 'no panhandling' zones to address concerns over safety and public space usage.
- The legality of panhandling can vary widely, with some areas criminalizing it and others encouraging supportive measures.
Psychological Aspects
- Research shows that people who panhandle often face mental health challenges, which can make finding stable employment difficult.
- Many panhandlers experience social stigma, impacting their self-esteem and interactions within society.
- Empathy levels among the public can fluctuate, often influenced by personal experiences or societal attitudes toward poverty.
Historical Context
- Panhandling has existed throughout history, often increasing during economic downturns, like the Great Depression.
- In medieval times, beggars were often seen in urban areas, relying on the charity of passersby for survival.
- Past societies created various systems of almsgiving, where the act of donating to those in need was both encouraged and organized.
Origin of 'panhandling'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'panhandle' originally referred to a small, shallow container used for collecting donations.
- It can be traced back to the late 19th century, where it began to denote the act of begging.
- The word has roots in the verb 'to pan,' meaning to empty a container, highlighting the nature of collecting.
The term 'panhandling' originated in the United States in the late 19th century, derived from the words 'pan' (meaning 'all') and 'handle' (referring to the act of begging with outstretched hands). Initially associated with begging for food, the term evolved to encompass soliciting money as well. Panhandling has been a topic of debate, with some advocating for support and resources for those who engage in it, while others view it as a nuisance or public safety concern.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #38,757, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.