Definitions

down-and-out

[doun-uhnd-out, -uhn] / ˈdaʊn əndˈaʊt, -ən /

ADJECTIVE

destitute

Synonyms

STRONG

bankrupt defeated derelict insolvent needy outcast vagabond vagrant

WEAK

beaten beggared broke broken destitute finished impoverished in the gutter in the poorhouse in the red moneyless on the skids out of funds penniless poverty-stricken ruined

Antonyms

STRONG

rich solvent wealthy

WEAK

well-to-do

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

People say it is down and out, but it was packed.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

Dallas were down and out at 21-0 down against the reigning Super Bowl champions, so how on earth did they produce their joint-best comeback ever?

From BBC • Nov. 24, 2025

When we meet him in Season 1, Gi-hun is down and out, an inveterate gambler.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2025

We don’t know much about him except that he’s only interested in keeping his head down and out of trouble.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2025

He opened his own mouth and let their shriek come down and out between his bared teeth.

From "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury

down-and-out

Example Sentences

Related Words