swagman

[ swag-muhn ]

noun

, Australian.

, plural swag·men.

1. a tramp, hobo, or vagabond.
2. anyone who carries a swag while traveling, as a camper or prospector.

swagman

/ ˈswæɡˌmæn; -mən /

noun

1. informal.
   a labourer who carries his personal possessions in a pack or swag while travelling about in search of work; vagrant worker Also calledswaggerswaggie

Word History and Origins

Origin of swagman¹

First recorded in 1875–80; swag ² + -man

Example Sentences

In reality, these days our jolly swagman would probably be pulled up for pitching his tent without a proper permit, lighting an illegal fire or sparking up a ciggie in a public place.

From BBC

Very soon, one suspects, the swagmen on Sir Matt Busby Way will have to update their "Giggsy 12 Gerrard 0" T-shirts paying homage to his unprecedented collection of title wins.

From The Guardian

Why, I’ve heard shearers, and hawkers, and swagmen spouting him by the yard!

From Project Gutenberg

He was dressed after the swagman fashion, certainly no better, and perhaps a little worse.

From Project Gutenberg

"Then Eureka it is!" cried the swagman, relieving himself of his swag, and heartily kicking it as it lay where he let it fall.

From Project Gutenberg