Definition

A person who relies on charitable donations or gifts for their living expenses.

Example

The almsman sat quietly by the church, waiting for the kind-hearted to offer him some food or money.

Conversation

Did you hear about that almsman we saw in the park yesterday?

Yeah, it was really sad to see someone in that situation.

I wonder how many people actually help out an almsman like him.

I hope more people do; everyone deserves a little kindness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Almsman is formed from "alms" (from Old English *ælms*, meaning charitable gifts or donations) and "man" (meaning a person). An almsman is a person who receives or gives alms, typically in the context of charity or assistance to the needy.

Memory Tip

Think of 'alms' as charitable gifts and 'man' as a person — an almsman is someone who is involved in giving or receiving these charitable gifts.

Visually Confused Words