1. Unintelligent or foolish person: This is the most common usage, often used to describe someone who is naive, gullible, or makes bad decisions. It's a slightly derogatory term, similar to "idiot" or "dummy."
2. Someone who is taken advantage of: Similar to the first meaning, it can describe someone who is easily tricked or manipulated, often for financial gain.
3. A Canadian slang term: In Canada, "hoser" can be used as a friendly term, similar to "buddy" or "mate." This meaning is often associated with someone who is enthusiastic or passionate, perhaps even a bit goofy.
4. A person from the U.S. state of Ohio: This is a much less common usage, but in some circles, "hoser" can refer to someone from Ohio, especially if they are considered unsophisticated or out of touch with modern trends.
The specific meaning of "hoser" can depend on the context and the speaker's intent. It's important to consider the tone of voice and the overall situation to understand the intended meaning.