vagabond
VAG-uh-bond
/ˈvæɡəˌbɒnd/
A person who wanders from place to place without a home or job.
Can be derogatory (homeless/shifty) or romanticized (a free spirit).
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'vagabundus', from 'vagari' (to wander). It shares a root with 'vague' (wandering in thought) and 'extravagant' (wandering outside limits).
Word relationships
- tramp: Tramp is more derogatory; vagabond has a more adventurous, literary feel.
- homebody: A person who enjoys staying at home.
Commonly confused with
- vagrant: Vagrant is a legal term for someone without a home; vagabond is more about the lifestyle of wandering.
Word family
- vagabondage (noun): The state or practice of wandering.
Collocations
- vagabond life
- vagabond spirit
- young vagabond
Example sentences
- "The old vagabond told stories of his travels in exchange for a warm meal." Literary description.
- "He had a vagabond heart, always looking for the next horizon." Describing a carefree attitude.
Memory hook
A 'Vagabond' is 'Bound' to 'Vag' (wander). The rootless wanderer.
When not to use
Be careful; calling someone a vagabond in a modern context can be offensive.
Fun facts
- In the 16th century, England passed 'Vagabond Acts' to punish those who wandered without work.
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