Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ne'er-do-well

noun
/ˈnɪr.də.wɛl/
Definition
A person who is lazy and irresponsible.
Examples
  • Despite his potential, he was seen as a ne’er-do-well who never managed to hold down a job.
  • She grew tired of his ne’er-do-well lifestyle and decided to move on with her life.
Meaning
The term refers to someone who doesn’t accomplish much in life due to a lack of effort or ambition.
Synonyms
  • Good-for-nothing
  • Layabout
  • Slackard