Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mendicancy

Noun
/ˌmɛn.dɪˈkæn.si/
Definition
The practice of begging or relying on others for support, often in a public context.
Examples
  • The rise in mendicancy during economic downturns raises many social concerns.
  • He was arrested for mendicancy after being found begging at the train station.
  • Mendicancy can be a viable option for some people without other means of support.
Meaning
Mendicancy refers to the state of being a beggar or the act of begging for money and resources. It is often associated with individuals who itinerantly seek donations or assistance instead of earning their livelihood through traditional employment.
Synonyms
  • beggary
  • panhandling
  • begging
  • vagrancy