carpetbagger
A migrant from the Northern to the Southern States after the American Civil War of…A migrant from the Northern to the Southern States after the American Civil War of 1861–5, especially one who went South to gain political influence.
» Tom is a carpetbagger.
Meaning
2 senses(US, offensive)A migrant from the Northern to the Southern States after the American Civil War of 1861–5, especially one who went South to gain political influence.
(broadly, derogatory)One who comes to a place or organisation with which they have no previous connection with the sole or primary aim of personal gain, especially political or financial gain.
- an outsider who seeks power or success presumptuously
Examples
1 sentencesTom is a carpetbagger.
Translations
3 languagesOrigin
From carpetbag + -er, because many carried their belongings in cheap luggage made from carFrom carpetbag + -er, because many carried their belongings in cheap luggage made from carpet fabric.
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