The word "lazzaroni" is a plural noun originating from Italian culture, which refers to a group of idle or unemployed people who loiter around in the streets. Its spelling might seem a bit daunting, but it can be broken down into IPA phonetic transcription as /læt.sə.ˈɹoʊ.ni/, with stress on the second syllable. The letter "z" in "lazzaroni" is pronounced as /ts/, while the double "r" sound is pronounced as a slight roll of the tongue. Remembering how to spell "lazzaroni" is much easier when you know its pronunciation.
Lazzaroni is a term that originated in Naples, Italy, and refers to a specific social class of impoverished individuals who lived in the city during the 18th and 19th centuries. The term can be translated to mean "lazybones" or "idle poor."
Lazzaroni were known for their extreme poverty and lack of ambition or aspiration. They were typically unskilled workers or beggars, residing in overcrowded and squalid neighborhoods. Often, they lived in crude and makeshift shelters without access to proper sanitation or basic amenities.
Historically, the lazzaroni were dependent on daily casual labor and petty begging to survive, and they lacked stable employment or any discernible social or economic mobility. They were distinguished by their tattered clothing, unkempt appearance, and overall indolent lifestyle.
The term "lazzaroni" can also be used metaphorically to describe individuals who are perceived as idle or unproductive, or those who show little ambition towards improving their circumstances. It may be employed to criticize someone for their perceived laziness or lack of effort in any given situation.
Today, the term "lazzaroni" serves as a reminder of a marginalized social class that endured poverty and hardship. It is used to evoke a sense of destitution and helplessness, highlighting the struggle of individuals facing extreme poverty and societal neglect.
The poor of Naples who have no regular occupation, and who live in the streets.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lazzaroni" has its origins in the Italian language. It comes from the Italian word "lazzaro", which in turn is believed to have derived from the biblical name Lazarus. Lazarus was known as a beggar in the New Testament, and his name became associated with poverty, destitution, and beggars.
In the context of Italian history, "lazzaroni" referred to the lowest social class in Naples during the 18th and 19th centuries. They were impoverished and often unemployed individuals who lived in extreme poverty and relied on begging and odd jobs for survival.
The term "lazzaroni" eventually became associated with a stereotype of idle, lazy, and unambitious people who refused to work and live off charity. Today, it is occasionally used metaphorically to describe individuals who are perceived as lazy or dependent on others.