* Medieval Latin: The word originated from the Latin phrase "vagus ab agendo," which literally means "wandering from doing (work)."
* French: This Latin phrase evolved into the French word "vagabond" around the 14th century.
* English: The English word "vagabond" was adopted from French in the 15th century.
Essentially, the word originally described someone who wandered from place to place without a fixed home or occupation, often associated with idleness or a lack of means.
Etymological breakdown:
* Vagus: Meaning "wandering," "straying," or "aimless"
* Ab: Meaning "from"
* Agendo: Meaning "doing" or "working"
Therefore, "vagabond" literally means "wandering from working," highlighting the core meaning of a person who travels without a settled life or employment.