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Pauper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pauper

[ˈpɔːpər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

poor person

A pauper is a person who is extremely poor, often relying on charity or government assistance for survival. Paupers typically have very limited financial resources and struggle to meet their basic needs.

Synonyms

beggar, destitute, indigent, poor person.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pauper

This term is often used in legal or historical contexts to describe someone who is extremely poor and relies entirely on public charity.

  • In the 19th century, many paupers lived in workhouses.
  • The court declared him a pauper and waived the legal fees.
poor person

This is a general term that can be used in everyday conversation to describe someone who has a low income and limited financial resources.

  • Several organizations offer support to poor persons in the community.
  • She grew up as a poor person but worked hard to improve her situation.
destitute

This term describes a state of complete lack of money, resources, or possessions, often used in more formal or descriptive language.

  • After losing his job, he was left destitute and had no place to go.
  • The shelter provided food and warmth for the destitute.
indigent

This word is often used in formal settings, particularly in legal or governmental contexts, to describe someone who is impoverished and in need of assistance.

  • Legal aid is provided to indigent defendants who cannot afford an attorney.
  • The hospital has a special fund to help indigent patients.
beggar

This word is typically used to denote someone who asks others for money or food, often seen on the streets.

  • The beggar sat on the corner, asking for spare change.
  • She gave her lunch to a beggar she met on her way to work.

Examples of usage

  • The orphanage was filled with paupers who had nowhere else to go.
  • During the Great Depression, many families became paupers overnight.
  • She lived as a pauper, unable to afford even the most basic necessities.
Context #2 | Noun

legal term

In legal terms, a pauper is someone who is declared indigent and is unable to pay for legal representation. This status allows them to receive free legal aid in court cases.

Synonyms

impoverished individual, indigent person.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pauper

Repeated in error. See first entry for proper context and examples.
indigent person

This term is suitable for formal writing, such as legal documents or reports, to describe someone lacking the means to live. It focuses on the absence of financial resources.

  • The hospital provides free services to indigent persons.
  • The charity organization works to support indigent persons in urban areas.
impoverished individual

This phrase is commonly used in formal contexts, such as academic or policy discussions, to describe someone who is very poor. It emphasizes the condition of being without resources.

  • The government launched a program to aid impoverished individuals in rural communities.
  • Many impoverished individuals lack access to basic healthcare and education.

Examples of usage

  • The court appointed a lawyer to represent the defendant as a pauper.
  • She was granted pauper status and received assistance from a public defender.

Translations

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

Origin of 'pauper'

The word 'pauper' originated from the Latin word 'pauper', meaning 'poor'. It has been used in English since the 16th century to refer to individuals living in poverty. In earlier times, paupers were often dependent on charity for their survival, as there were limited social welfare programs available. The term has evolved over time and is now primarily used to describe individuals who are extremely poor and lack financial resources.

See also: pauperize.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,643, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.