What is a hobo?

Hobos are individuals who travel from place to place, often by hopping freight trains, in search of temporary work. The term originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, and hobos were known for their migratory lifestyle and willingness to work odd jobs to support themselves. Unlike tramps, who typically avoid work, and bums, who do not travel, hobos pride themselves on their resourcefulness and adaptability. The culture of hobos includes unique slang, symbols, and traditions that developed during the Great Depression and earlier. Today, the traditional hobo lifestyle is rare, but the concept remains a part of American folklore and history.