What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vagabond
Example
The vagabond wandered through the city streets, looking for food and shelter. [vagabond: noun]
Example
He lived a vagabond life, traveling from place to place with no particular destination in mind. [vagabond: adjective]
nomad
Example
The nomads traveled across the desert in search of water and food. [nomads: noun]
Example
She lived a nomadic life, moving from country to country every few months. [nomadic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nomad is more commonly used than vagabond in everyday language. Nomad is a well-known term that has been used throughout history to describe various groups of people, while vagabond is a less common term that is often associated with a negative connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vagabond and nomad?
Both vagabond and nomad are informal terms that are not typically used in formal contexts. However, nomad may be more widely recognized and accepted in certain academic or professional settings due to its historical and cultural significance.