# pauper

/ˈpɔpɝ/ (US) · /pˈɔːpɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pauper
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a person who is extremely poor and has no money at all. This word is quite old-fashioned and sounds more serious than just saying 'poor person'.

For teachers: a person who is extremely poor and lacks any significant means of support. Often carries a legal or historical connotation, particularly in the context of inheritance or social welfare.

## Examples

- The old man lived as a pauper in the city streets.
- In the 19th century, many families were reduced to the status of paupers after losing their land to the industrialists.
- The novel explores the stark contrast between the opulent lifestyles of the aristocracy and the desperate existence of the pauper, highlighting the rigid social hierarchies of the era.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.