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Vagrants Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vagrants

[หˆveษชษกrษ™nts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

homeless people

Vagrants are homeless individuals who wander from place to place without a permanent residence. They often struggle to meet their basic needs such as food and shelter.

Synonyms

beggars, homeless people, tramps.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vagrants

Repeated entry; see initial context.

  • The city has set up shelters to help vagrants during the winter months.
  • Many vagrants were found living in abandoned buildings.
homeless people

A neutral and socially sensitive term that refers to individuals who do not have a permanent residence.

  • The local nonprofit agency provides meals and shelter for homeless people.
  • The government is working on new programs to support homeless people.
tramps

An old-fashioned and somewhat negative term for people who travel aimlessly, often living off the land or small-time work.

  • In the novel, the protagonist meets a tramp who shares stories of his travels.
  • The tramps were known to sleep under the railway bridges.
beggars

This describes people who ask for money or food on the street. It carries a negative connotation and focuses on the act of asking for charity.

  • There are many beggars near the train station.
  • He was approached by beggars asking for spare change.

Examples of usage

  • The city center is a common gathering place for vagrants seeking help.
  • Local organizations provide support for vagrants in need of assistance.
Context #2 | Noun

vagabonds

Vagrants are often seen as vagabonds, moving from town to town without a fixed destination. They may rely on temporary shelters or aid from charitable organizations.

Synonyms

nomads, vagabonds, wanderers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
vagrants

Used to describe homeless people who live on the streets, often implying they have no means of support. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The city is trying to find a solution for the increasing number of vagrants in public parks.
  • The shelter provides temporary accommodation for vagrants.
vagabonds

Describes people who wander from place to place without a settled home or regular work. Often used in literary or poetic contexts, and can carry a romantic or adventurous connotation.

  • He lived as a vagabond for years, traveling from town to town with only a backpack.
  • The novel tells the story of a young vagabond exploring Europe.
nomads

Refers to people who move from place to place, typically in search of food, pasture, or work. Often used in anthropological or sociological contexts.

  • The nomads travel across the desert in search of water and grazing land for their animals.
  • Modern digital nomads work remotely from different locations around the world.
wanderers

Describes people who travel aimlessly without a fixed destination. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

  • The mountains are full of adventurous wanderers seeking solitude.
  • He was a wanderer at heart, never staying in one place for too long.

Examples of usage

  • The group of vagrants set up camp on the outskirts of the city.
  • Vagrants travel light, carrying only essential belongings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • During the Middle Ages in Europe, vagrants were often seen as outcasts and faced harsh laws against wandering.
  • The Poor Law of 1601 in England aimed to address the needs of vagrants, creating systems for poor relief.
  • In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, systematic efforts began to provide assistance and shelter for vagrants in urban areas.

Social Issues

  • Vagrancy is often linked with broader social issues like poverty, mental health problems, and lack of affordable housing.
  • Many modern cities have designated outreach programs to help vagrants access shelter, food, and support services.
  • The perception of vagrants can vary widely; some see them as victims of circumstance, while others view them as societal issues.

Pop Culture

  • Vagrants are often depicted in literature and film as wandering characters searching for purpose, like in Steinbeck's 'The Grapes of Wrath'.
  • Music has frequently referenced the lives and struggles of vagrants, such as in Bob Dylan's 'A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall'.
  • Street art and graffiti sometimes portray vagrants to bring attention to social injustices and provoke discussions on homelessness.

Psychology

  • Some studies suggest that individuals identified as vagrants might experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and isolation.
  • Social psychology research explores the stigma surrounding vagrants, often identifying it as a significant barrier to rehabilitation.
  • Understanding the psychology of vagrants is crucial for developing effective support systems and reducing social ostracization.

Origin of 'vagrants'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'vagrant' comes from the Latin 'vagari', meaning 'to wander'.
  • It first appeared in English around the 14th century, referring to beggars and wanderers.
  • Originally, it was used in legal contexts to describe individuals without visible means of support.

The term 'vagrants' originated in the late 15th century, derived from the Latin word 'vagari' meaning 'to wander'. It has been used historically to describe individuals without a fixed abode or regular work, often associated with poverty and homelessness.

See also: vagrancy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,584, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.