Meaning & Definition
adjective
Having no money; destitute.
After losing his job, he found himself penniless and struggling to pay rent.
Impoverished; lacking financial resources.
The charity aims to help the penniless families in the community.
Broke or having very little money.
She was penniless after the unexpected medical bills.
Without means of support.
Several penniless travelers were seeking help at the local shelter.
Etymology
Derived from 'penny' meaning a small coin, with the suffix '-less' indicating without.
Common Phrases and Expressions
down and out:
A person who is without a home or means of living.
flat broke:
Completely out of money.
living hand to mouth:
Living with barely enough to survive.
Slang Meanings
Broke
I'm so broke this week that I can't even buy coffee.
Flat broke
After paying rent, I'm flat broke until payday.