Originally referred to religious people begging as part of their spiritual practice.

Historical Context

Nowadays, it can refer to any person who begs for money or food.

Modern Usage

Mendicant can have a sympathetic or disparaging connotation, depending on context.

Refers to religious orders whose members beg for a living.

Sometimes used to describe a chosen lifestyle of simplicity and minimalism.

Not always religious; can describe any nomadic or itinerant lifestyle.