ragpicker

[ rag-pik-er ]

noun

1. a person who picks up rags rag and other waste material from the streets, refuse heaps, etc., for a livelihood.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ragpicker¹

First recorded in 1855–60; rag ¹ + picker

Example Sentences

The Paris ragpicker is seldom seen in the streets by day: his most profitable season is the night.

From Project Gutenberg

The scavenger and the ragpicker, being the lowest grade of blousards, do not always rise to the dignity even of a blouse.

From Project Gutenberg

What if the ragpicker's daughters are hastening over the ocean to teach your children in the public schools?

From Project Gutenberg

"That part being settled, my young fellow, you must now settle scores with us," proceeded the ragpicker.

From Project Gutenberg

The group of armed men, the ragpicker excepted, who stood around the thief, consulted for a moment in a low voice.

From Project Gutenberg