layabout

noun

lay·​about ˈlā-ə-ˌbau̇t How to pronounce layabout (audio)
: a lazy shiftless person : idler

Examples of layabout in a Sentence

she regretted ever asking that layabout to be her roommate, as he created the mess of two people and refused to help with anything
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Moore’s then-husband Bruce Willis plays against-type as the abusive layabout husband of hairdresser Joyce (Glenne Headly). Katie Rife, EW.com, 2 Mar. 2025 In Yancheng, in eastern China, the police have checked karaoke bars, rental housing and hotels for potential layabouts. Vivian Wang, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2025 Again, these workshy layabouts take a day off, but the jamboree ends on New Year’s Day, with Brentford at home to Arsenal. Nick Miller, The Athletic, 23 Dec. 2024 But his Johnny is a sullen layabout, lacking in the punk rock energy that the role requires. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 18 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for layabout

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of layabout was in 1932

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Layabout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/layabout. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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