drifter

word

Definition

A drifter is a person who moves from place to place without a permanent home or regular job, often wandering for a long time. It can also mean someone who avoids settling down in one place.

Usage & Nuances

'Drifter' is informal and often used for people in stories, music, or films who live freely but lack stability. Sometimes it carries a sense of freedom, and other times it suggests being lost or lacking direction. Not commonly used in everyday conversation about friends or acquaintances.

Example Sentences

The old movie tells the story of a lonely drifter searching for purpose.

natural

Sometimes being a drifter means you’re free, but sometimes it’s just lonely.

natural

He lived as a drifter for many years, never staying in one town.

basic

The drifter slept under the stars every night.

basic

No one knew where the drifter came from.

basic

After losing his job, Jake became a bit of a drifter, just going wherever life took him.

natural