The word "hobo" refers to a person who is homeless and often travels from place to place, typically looking for work or a way to survive. Hobos are often associated with a transient lifestyle and may rely on itinerant labor or other temporary jobs to make ends meet. Historically, the term became popular during the Great Depression when many people traveled to find work.
The term "hobo" is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The exact origin is uncertain, but it may come from the combination of "ho" (an informal greeting) and "boy." Alternatively, it might relate to the word "hoe," suggesting agricultural labor.