Meaning & Definition of word "Pauper"
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Pauper
/ˈpɔːpər/
noun:
- 1. a very poor person who lacks money to pay for basic necessities.
- Example: Despite being a pauper, he always managed to help those even less fortunate than himself.
- 2. a person who is dependent on public charity; a person without means of support.
- Example: The city had a program to assist paupers with housing and food.
- 3. historically, a person who was legally classified as poor and entitled to receive assistance from the state.
- Example: In the 19th century, many paupers were placed in workhouses to receive aid.
Etymology
From Latin 'pauper' meaning 'poor, needy'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pennyless pauper:
An extremely poor person, one without any money.
pauper's grave:
A grave for someone who cannot afford a proper burial.
Related Words
beggar:
A person who asks others for money or food.
vagrant:
A person without a permanent home who wanders from place to place.
Slang Meanings of pauper
Meaning: Broke
Example Sentence: I'm completely broke after paying rent, just like a pauper.
Meaning: Flat broke
Example Sentence: I'm flat broke this week; I feel like a pauper.