The word 'fakir' is originally from Arabic 'faqīr'

'Fakir' is a word borrowed from Arabic 'faqīr'. The word entered the English language some time around 1609.

fakir [noun] [1609]

• a Muslim mendicant
• dervish
• an itinerant Hindu ascetic or wonder-worker
• impostor
• swindler

See 'fakir' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Arabic.

Etymology: Arabic 'faqīr' literally, poor man

See more loan words from 1600s.