Mendicant
Noun
Definition: A beggar, especially one who depends on charity for survival.
Synonyms: Beggar, Pauper, Panhandler
Antonyms: Benefactor, Donor, Philanthropist
- The mendicant approached the passerby, asking for spare change.
- The city's streets were filled with mendicants seeking alms.
- Think of "mendicant" as an impoverished person who mendicantly begs for money.
Etymology:
Late Middle English from Latin 'mendicans', mendicant- (from the verb mendicare, from menda, mend- 'fault, blemish') + -ant (forming adjectives and nouns).
Historical Usage:The term "mendicant" emerged in the late 14th century and has been used to refer to beggars and religious orders that depended on charity.
Related Idioms:
"Mendicant order"
Explanation:A religious order, such as the Franciscans or Dominicans, that relies on begging rather than owning property.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "mendicant" with "mendacious".
Explanation:"Mendicant" refers to a beggar, while "mendacious" means inclined to lie or deceive. These words have different meanings and should not be confused.