Pronunciation: [lˌe͡ɪzɐɹˈə͡ʊni] (IPA) 
The word "Lazaroni" is spelled with a "z" in the middle, despite being pronounced with an "s" sound. This is due to the Italian spelling convention, where "z" is used instead of "s" between vowels. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /la.zaˈro.ni/ with emphasis on the second syllable. It refers to a term used in the 18th and 19th centuries to describe the poorest citizens of Naples, Italy.
Lazaroni is a noun that refers to a group of unemployed or impoverished people, typically associated with the lower class or the downtrodden. This term originates from the Italian word "lazaro," which means a beggar or a man who begs. The term is derived from the biblical character Lazarus, who was described as a poor beggar in the New Testament.
The Lazaroni were often depicted as living in extreme poverty, relying on charity or public assistance to survive. They were commonly found in urban areas, particularly in Italy during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Lazaroni were characterized by their destitute and desperate conditions, often living in makeshift dwellings or on the streets.
In literature and art, the Lazaroni were often depicted as a symbol of social inequality and the suffering endured by the lower class. Their existence highlighted the disparities between the wealthy and the impoverished, serving as a commentary on the social and economic injustices of the time.
The term "Lazaroni" can also be used metaphorically to describe a group of people who are perceived as being lazy or unproductive, particularly in a derogatory sense. It implies a lack of ambition or motivation, suggesting that individuals are content with their impoverished circumstances without making efforts to improve their situation.
The word "Lazaroni" is derived from the Italian word "lazzaro" or "lazzarone", which historically referred to a member of the lower class or the urban poor in Naples, Italy. The etymology of "lazzaro" can be traced back to the biblical character Lazarus, who was afflicted with leprosy. The term "lazzaro" was later used to describe beggars, vagrants, and individuals living in extreme poverty. Over time, "lazzaroni" became a term specifically associated with the impoverished masses of Naples.
