Definition

1. Noun:
   • A beggar who approaches strangers asking for money: A person, typically in a public place, who solicits money or other items from passersby.

Usage

• The word "panhandler" is a specific term for a person who begs, particularly one who does so directly and actively by approaching people on the street. It is more specific than the general term "beggar."
• It is often used in American English and can carry informal or slightly negative connotations.
• It functions as a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The city council debated new laws to regulate panhandlers in the downtown area.
  • She gave a dollar to a panhandler outside the subway station.
  • He was approached by a persistent panhandler while waiting at the traffic light.

Advanced Usage

• "to panhandle" (verb): The related verb means to beg for money in a public place.
  • He was arrested for panhandling aggressively near the bank.
• The term originates from the image of a beggar holding out a pan or container to receive money or food.

Variants and Related Words

• Panhandle (verb): To beg, especially on the street.
  • It is illegal to panhandle on public transportation in this city.
• Panhandling (noun): The act of begging for money in public.
  • The mayor promised to address the issue of aggressive panhandling.

Synonyms

• Beggar: A person who lives by asking for money or food. (More general)
• Mendicant: A formal or literary term for a beggar.
• Cadger (chiefly British): Someone who habitually borrows or begs.

Antonyms

• Donor: A person who gives something, such as money, to a cause.
• Benefactor: A person who gives money or other help to a person or cause.
• Philanthropist: A person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.

Noun

1. a beggar who approaches strangers asking for money