beggars

beg-gars · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    People who live by asking for money or food from others.

  2. 2.

    [British, informal]People (used affectionately or with pity).

  3. 3.

    Reduces to poverty.

  4. 4.

    Makes inadequate.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    beggars can't be choosers — Those in need must accept what's available.

Related words

See also: beg, beggar, poor
Synonyms: mendicants, panhandlers, vagrants

Etymology

From Middle English begger + plural -s.