Langimage
English

beggar

|beg/gar|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈbɛɡər/

🇬🇧

/ˈbɛɡə/

one who asks for alms

Etymology
Etymology Information

'beggar' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'beggere,' where 'beg' meant 'to ask or request.'

Historical Evolution

'beggere' transformed into the modern English word 'beggar' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'one who asks or requests,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who lives by asking for money or food.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person, typically homeless, who lives by asking for money or food.

The beggar sat on the street corner, asking for spare change.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to make someone very poor or impoverished.

The economic crisis beggared many families.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42