Definition

A person who gathers and sells old cloth or rags, often for recycling or resale.

Example

The ragman came through the neighborhood, looking for old clothes to collect.

Conversation

Have you ever seen the ragman in our neighborhood?

Yeah, I saw him collecting old clothes last week.

I wonder how he finds so many people willing to sell their rags.

I guess it's a good way for him to make a living.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ragman → The word originates from Middle English *ragman*, which is derived from the phrase 'ragman roll', referring to a roll or list of names of those who owed debts or were bound to a contract, with 'rag' meaning a tattered cloth or garment. The term evolved to describe a person who collects rags or is associated with ragged clothing. Thus, a ragman is someone who deals with rags or second-hand clothing.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'rag' as a tattered piece of cloth, and remember that a 'ragman' is someone who collects or deals with such items.

Visually Confused Words