A colloquial Australian term. Same as Hobo in USA. Someone who wanders from place to place working for his tucker, whose possessions fit into his swag (Ofttimes his blanket tied by the corners and slung over his shoulder on a stick) The song Waltzing Matilda was written about a Swagman who stole a sheep, but this is not the norm for the Swagman., He was a traveler, for whatever reason.
Walzting Matilda was a song written about a Swagman who stole a sheep, but, although the most famous reference it certainly was not the norm for the Swagman.
by Drumdancer April 11, 2013
by Casual April 30, 2003
A colloquial Australian term. A sort of drifter whose possessions fit into his swag (sack). Somewhat of a thief.
Made famous in the famous australian song:
WALTZING MATILDA
Made famous in the famous australian song:
WALTZING MATILDA
Waltzing Matilda lyrics:
"once a jolly swagman camped by a billabong, under the shade of a coolabah tree...and he sang as he watched and waited till his billy boiled, you'll come a waltzing matilda with me"
"once a jolly swagman camped by a billabong, under the shade of a coolabah tree...and he sang as he watched and waited till his billy boiled, you'll come a waltzing matilda with me"
by HappyFt March 18, 2009