Definition

Relating to or resembling a beggar; very poor or lacking in quality.

Example

He lived in a beggarly house with barely enough food to eat.

Conversation

I saw a documentary about people living in such beggarly conditions.

That sounds really sad. It’s hard to believe people suffer like that.

Yeah, it made me appreciate what I have so much more.

Definitely! We should do something to help those in need.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Beggarly → It is formed from "beggar" (from Old English "bedecor", meaning one who begs) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "beggarly" describes something that is characteristic of or resembling a beggar, often implying poverty or meagerness.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is a 'beggar' — the '-ly' means in the manner of, so 'beggarly' describes something that is in the manner of a beggar, often suggesting a state of poverty.

Visually Confused Words