Hobo - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A hobo is a homeless person who travels from place to place, often by hopping trains, in search of work or temporary shelter. The term implies a nomadic lifestyle.
Definition:
A homeless person who travels in search of work, often carrying belongings in a bindle.
Synonyms:
vagrant, tramp, drifter, wanderer
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
homeowner, resident
Common Collocations:
hobo lifestyle, hobo camp, hobo code
Derivatives:
hobos, hoboing
Usage Tips:
Use "hobo" to describe a traveling homeless worker; avoid derogatory connotations by using neutral tone.
Common Phrases:
hobo jungle, king of the hobos, ride the rails like a hobo
Etymology:
Likely from "hoe boy," referring to migrant workers carrying hoes in the late 19th century.
Examples:
- 1. The old hobo sat by the fire telling stories of his travels.
- 2. She gave the hungry hobo a sandwich and a warm drink.
- 3. A hobo’s bindle often holds all their worldly possessions.
- 4. He lived like a hobo for years, hopping trains across the country.