pauper

[paw-per]

noun

1. a person without any means of support, especially a destitute person who depends on aid from public welfare funds or charity.

2. a very poor person.

pauper

/ ˈpɔːpə /

noun

1. a person who is extremely poor

2. (formerly) a destitute person supported by public charity

Other Word Forms

• pauperage noun
• pauperdom noun
• pauperism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pauper¹

1485–95; < Latin: poor

Word History and Origins

Origin of pauper¹

C16: from Latin: poor

Example Sentences

“Yes, yes, paupers and grubby orphans; it is all quite tragic.”

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“Believe it or not, I have spent the day among paupers. A pauper is someone who is exceptionally poor,” she added, by way of explanation to Alexander and Beowulf.

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A Nigerian mum might say: 'Do you want to live your life as a pauper forever?'

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The sport of kings to some, the sport of paupers for most.

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"The RFU keep trumpeting community rugby as the lifeblood of the game, while at the same time seemingly treating them like paupers."

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