Drifter
/ˈdrɪf.tər/noun
A person who moves from place to place without a permanent home.
Did you know?The term 'drifter' is linked to the Old Norse word for 'to float' or 'drift', evoking images of lost spirits navigating the unknown.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
drift
“to drive or force along; a course or direction of movement.”
Old Norse
ON
drifta
“to float or drift, often used in the context of being carried by water.”
Middle English
ME
driften
“to move or flow in a specific direction.”
19th Century
English
drifter
“a person who wanders or moves aimlessly, often associated with a transient lifestyle.”