down-and-out

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.

Much to my surprise, Radcliffe more than steps up as a down-and-out documentarian inserted into the life of a disgraced football star grasping for a comeback.

From Salon • Jun. 20, 2026

If the New York Knicks—the most dismal, down-and-out franchise of the past half-century—were going to win their first NBA championship since 1973, it would require a zillion things to break just right.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 14, 2026

That typified The Times’ approach to the down-and-out well into the 20th century.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 10, 2025

"These are a group of elderly down-and-out thieves, they're always broke, they're forever involved in convoluted plans… and they're facing a huge celebrity and they don't even know who she is."

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2025

Mr. Pickwell had brought home a down-and-out shoe salesman in sore need of sympathy and a good meal.

From "Maniac Magee" by Jerry Spinelli