beggar

 
Pronunciation: /ˈbɛgə/

noun

  • 1a person, typically a homeless one, who lives by asking for money or food.
  • 2 [with adjective] informal a person of a specified type, especially one to be envied or pitied: poor little beggars

verb

[with object]
  • reduce (someone) to poverty: why should I beggar myself for you?

Phrases

beggar belief (or description)

be too extraordinary to be believed or described: a disregard for common sense which beggars belief

beggars can't be choosers

proverb people with no other options must be content with what is offered.

set a beggar on horseback and he'll ride to the Devil

proverb someone unaccustomed to power or luxury will abuse or be corrupted by it.

Origin:

Middle English: from beg + -ar3

Spelling help

Spell beggar with a double g; the ending is -ar.