Definitions

1. noun

An old term for an orphaned or abandoned child, particularly one who is forced to beg or live on the streets.

“The city’s charity organizations worked together to help the tawpies in need.”

2. noun

A term used to describe a child of a beggar or an idle person, often implying a lack of parental care or supervision.

“Historical accounts often used the term ‘tawpie’ to describe children of vagrants.”