Pronunciation: [dˌa͡ʊn ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "down out" can be confusing as it is a combination of two separate words. When we break it down, the first word "down" is pronounced as /daʊn/ with the vowel sound of "ow" like in "cow". The second word "out" is pronounced as /aʊt/ with the same vowel sound but slightly shorter. Together, they form the compound word "down out" which refers to someone who is destitute or without resources.
Down and out is an idiomatic expression that is typically used to describe someone who is destitute, impoverished, or experiencing extreme hardship, both economically and socially. The term "down" refers to a state of despair or desolation, while "out" implies a situation of being without resources, support, or any opportunities for improvement.
The phrase "down and out" originated from early 20th-century slang, primarily used in the context of boxing. It specifically referred to a boxer who was knocked down by their opponent and unable to rise before the referee's count reached ten, resulting in their loss. Over time, the terminology extended its meaning to encompass individuals facing adversity in various facets of life.
A person who is described as down and out may struggle to make ends meet, lacking shelter, food, and basic amenities, often residing on the streets or in homeless shelters. They may also face social ostracization and have limited access to healthcare, education, or employment opportunities. The term emphasizes their marginalized status and perceived hopelessness in improving their circumstances.
Furthermore, the expression can be metaphorically used to describe situations, organizations, or institutions that are in severe decline or experiencing significant setbacks, such as a business on the verge of bankruptcy or a country undergoing a profound economic crisis.
In summary, "down and out" describes individuals or situations that are both socially and economically bereft, indicating a state of extreme hardship, lack of resources, and little to no prospects for improvement.
The word "down" and the word "out" have different etymologies.
1. Down:
The term "down" originated from the Old English word "dūn", which means "hill" or "elevated ground". Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "dūnaz", which also meant "hill". The evolution of the word led to its use in various contexts, including "downward direction" and "lower position". Over time, "down" has acquired multiple meanings related to descending or lowering.
2. Out:
The word "out" can be traced back to the Old English term "ūt", derived from the Proto-Germanic word "ūt". It refers to a position or state of being outside or beyond. The concept of "out" suggests movement or transition from inside to outside, or from one state or location to another.
