bohemian

Definition

A person, especially an artist or writer, who lives an unconventional or nonconformist lifestyle.

Etymology

Borrowed from French bohémien (“person from Bohemia”), from Bohême (“Bohemia”), equivalent to Bohemia + -an.

Example Sentences

• "Burlington, where Mr. Twitchell grew up and where he now spends summers, was singled out by David Brooks in his wickedly funny “Bobos in Paradise” as a model Latte Town, a city that has perfectly reconciled the mercenary instincts of the bourgeoisie with the artistic spirit of the bohemians to create an upscale consumer culture."
• "During 1940–1941, the few Hollywood bohemians that did appear received "harsher" depictions. The United States' preparations for and eventual entry into World War II figured prominently in this decline and change in the treatment of Hollywood bohemians."
• "Whitman was, by no means, the "King of Bohemia"—that title went to Henry Clapp Jr., the founding editor of the Saturday Press—but the bohemians embraced and supported him at a crucial moment in his career."