Meaning & Definition of word "Deadbeat"
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Deadbeat
/ˈdɛdˌbit/
noun:
- 1. A person who is lazy, irresponsible, or relies on others for support; often used to describe someone who does not fulfill their obligations.
- Example: He’s such a deadbeat; he never pays his rent on time.
- 2. A person who avoids work or effort.
- Example: They called him a deadbeat for always bumming off his friends.
- 3. A person, especially a parent, who fails to provide financial support to their children.
- Example: She had to take him to court because he was a deadbeat dad.
adjective:
- 1. Describing someone or something that is lazy or unproductive.
- Example: The deadbeat employees were let go during the layoffs.
Etymology
The term 'deadbeat' combines 'dead', implying inactive or lifeless, with 'beat', referring to a person who is beaten down or exhausted, suggesting someone who is unproductive.
Common Phrases and Expressions
deadbeat dad:
A father who does not fulfill his financial obligations to his children.
deadbeat musician:
A musician whose performances do not earn them a living.
Related Words
loafer:
A person who idles away time without working.
slacker:
A person who avoids work or responsibility.
freeloader:
A person who takes advantage of others' generosity without giving anything in return.
Slang Meanings of deadbeat
Meaning: A person who cannot be relied upon to contribute or help.
Example Sentence: He's such a deadbeat; he never pulls his weight in the team.
Meaning: Someone who lives off others without making an effort.
Example Sentence: She finally kicked her deadbeat boyfriend out after he didn't pay rent for months.