Bludger
/ˈblʌdʒə/noun
A person, especially in Australian or New Zealand English, who avoids work and lives off others.
Did you know?In late-19th-century Australian slang, bludger could refer to a pimp or a man living from a prostitute’s earnings before broadening into its modern meaning of a loafer or sponger.
Etymological Timeline
Late 19th Century
Australian English
bludger
“Underworld slang for a pimp or a man supported by a prostitute’s earnings.”
1880s
Australian English
bludger
“A person living off others, especially through exploitative or parasitic arrangements.”
Late 19th–Early 20th Century
Australian English
bludger
“A loafer or someone who avoids honest work.”
20th Century
Australian English
bludger
“A sponger who relies on friends, relatives, or public support.”
Modern English
Australian/NZ English
bludger
“A lazy or work-shy person; often used humorously or as an insult.”