BEG FOR ALMS' (5 letters) The term BE A BEGGAR can be summarized by two crossword solutions: CADGE and BEG FOR ALMS. CADGE is a verb meaning to obtain something, especially money, by persistent asking or persuasion. BEG FOR ALMS is an expression used to describe the act of asking FOR money or other forms of assistance from people in public places. Begging is an age-old practice that has been around since ancient times, and is still practiced today in many parts of the world.