Definition

A person who travels from place to place without a home, often living on the streets and relying on the kindness of others.

Example

The city has many clochards who seek shelter in public parks during the night.

Conversation

Did you see that clochard by the park yesterday?

Yeah, it was really sad to see him there all alone.

I wonder what his story is and how he ended up as a clochard.

I know, it's tough — I wish there was more we could do to help.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Clochard originates from the French word 'clochard', which means a beggar or homeless person. The term is derived from 'cloche' (meaning bell), possibly referring to the sound of bells associated with begging or the idea of a person who is 'ringing' for help.

Memory Tip

Think of the French word 'cloche' for bell, which connects to the idea of someone who might be 'ringing' for help, helping you remember that a clochard is a beggar or homeless person.

Visually Confused Words