drifter

noun

drift·​er ˈdrif-tər How to pronounce drifter (audio)
: one that drifts
especially : one that travels or moves about aimlessly

Examples of drifter in a Sentence

He was a drifter who hitchhiked from state to state. the drifter just packed up and moved on to the next dead-end job
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Charades Why Buyers Care: Dickinson shows a different side of himself, making his feature directorial debut with this story of a drifter trying to reintegrate into society. Brent Lang, Variety, 13 May 2025 Dillane is already getting some high marks for his authentic portrayal of a homeless drifter and addict from those who have seen it in rough cuts. Brian Welk, IndieWire, 13 May 2025 From standout fashion trends like the Lands' End classic American flag drifter sweater to Victoria Beckham’s stylish plain white tee, these shirts, sweaters and skirts will look great with all your spring outfits. Christopher Murray, FOXNews.com, 4 Apr. 2025 Hartnett plays a down-on-his luck drifter named Lucas, who wakes up in Bangkok with a hangover, a black eye and his hated ex Katherine (Katee Sackhoff) calling him for a favor. Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for drifter

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of drifter was in 1897

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Drifter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drifter. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

drifter

noun
drift·​er ˈdrif-tər How to pronounce drifter (audio)
: one that drifts
especially : a person who travels about without purpose

More from Merriam-Webster on drifter

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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