wretch

[rech]

noun

1. a deplorably unfortunate or unhappy person.

2. a person of despicable or base character.

wretch

/ rɛtʃ /

noun

1. a despicable person

2. a person pitied for his misfortune

Word History and Origins

Origin of wretch¹

before 900; Middle English wrecche, Old English wrecca exile, adventurer; cognate with German Recke warrior, hero, Old Norse rekkr man

Word History and Origins

Origin of wretch¹

Old English wrecca; related to Old Saxon wrekkeo, Old High German reccheo (German Recke warrior), Old Norse rek ( n ) ingr

Example Sentences

If Zabka weren’t so charming, we couldn’t have bought the proposition that an ignorant wretch like Johnny could be redeemable.

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Speaking to an Italian TV programme from his Vatican residence, Francis said that if the plans went ahead, Trump would make "poor wretches that don't have anything foot the bill".

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“It was the example of men like Darrow that caused the poor deluded wretch, J.B. McNamara, to believe that he could commit the crimes he did with safety to himself,” Ford said.

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This pathetic wretch longs to escape to Istanbul, where he can be around the worldly types he prefers.

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At Rachel’s burial, Jackson angrily said, “I can and do forgive all my enemies. But those vile wretches who have slandered her must look to God for mercy.”

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Related Words

• rascal