Deadbeat

/ˈdɛdˌbit/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who is lazy, irresponsible, or relies on others for support; often used to describe someone who does not fulfill their obligations.

He’s such a deadbeat; he never pays his rent on time.

A person who avoids work or effort.

They called him a deadbeat for always bumming off his friends.

A person, especially a parent, who fails to provide financial support to their children.

She had to take him to court because he was a deadbeat dad.

adjective

Describing someone or something that is lazy or unproductive.

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

A person who cannot be relied upon to contribute or help.

He's such a deadbeat; he never pulls his weight in the team.

Someone who lives off others without making an effort.

She finally kicked her deadbeat boyfriend out after he didn't pay rent for months.