Historical term for a person living outside mainstream society, often associated with gambling, itinerant lifestyles, or underworld connections. Modern usage is rare and carries a dated, period-piece feel.
Compound of 渡世 (tosei, 'making a living, getting by in the world') and 人 (nin, 'person'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the term came to refer to those who lived by their wits outside conventional society.
