Meaning & Definition of word "Drifter"

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    Drifter

    /ˈdrɪftər/

    noun:

    • 1. A person who moves from place to place without a fixed home or job.
      • Example: The drifter wandered through the small towns, never staying in one place too long.
    • 2. A person who leads a carefree or aimless lifestyle.
      • Example: After finishing college, he became a drifter, traveling across the country with no destination in mind.
    • 3. In the context of racing or motorsports, a driver who intentionally oversteers, causing loss of traction.
      • Example: None
    • 4. A part of a boat or a similar vehicle designed to aid in navigation, typically to catch the wind.
      • Example: The fisherman adjusted the drifter to ensure better movement with the tide.
    • 5. A style of music or a subculture associated with wandering musicians or artists.
      • Example: The drifter lifestyle often influences the lyrics of folk songs.

    Etymology

    Derived from the verb 'drift', meaning to be carried along by currents of water or air.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    drifter lifestyle:

    A way of living characterized by frequent changes of location and lack of a permanent home.

    like a drifter:

    To move around aimlessly or without purpose.

    Related Words

    nomad:

    A member of a community that moves with its animals from place to place.

    vagabond:

    A person who wanders from place to place without a home.

    Slang Meanings of drifter

    Meaning: Free spirit on the road.

    Example Sentence: He's such a drifter, always moving and never looking back.

    Meaning: Someone without a fixed address and lifestyle.

    Example Sentence: The town is full of drifters, people just passing through.