What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nomad
Example
The nomads traveled across the desert with their camels in search of water. [nomads: noun]
Example
She adopted a nomadic lifestyle, living in a van and traveling around the country. [nomadic: adjective]
itinerant
Example
The itinerant salesman traveled from town to town selling his wares. [itinerant: adjective]
Example
She worked as an itinerant nurse, traveling to different communities to provide medical care. [itinerant: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Itinerant is more commonly used than nomad in everyday language, especially in modern contexts. Nomad is less common and may have a more specialized or historical usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nomad and itinerant?
Both nomad and itinerant can be used in formal or informal contexts, but itinerant may be more versatile due to its modern connotations and wider range of applications.