blackguard

[ blag-ahrd, -erd, blak-gahrd ]

noun

1. a low, contemptible person; scoundrel.

   Synonyms: villain, devil, rogue, rapscallion, rascal, scamp

2. Obsolete.
   1. a group of menial workers in the kitchen of a large household.
   2. the servants of an army.
   3. camp followers.

verb (used with object)

1. to revile in scurrilous language.

   Synonyms: vilify, berate

blackguard

/ ˈblæɡɑːd; -ɡəd /

noun

1. 1. an unprincipled contemptible person; scoundrel
   2. ( as modifier )

      blackguard language

verb

1. tr to ridicule or denounce with abusive language
2. intr to behave like a blackguard

Derived Forms

• ˈblackguardism, noun
• ˈblackguardly, adjective

Other Words From

• blackguard·ism noun
• blackguard·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of blackguard¹

1525–35; black + guard; original sense obscure

Word History and Origins

Origin of blackguard¹

C16: originally a collective noun referring to the lowest menials in court, camp followers, vagabonds; see black, guard

Example Sentences

Not exactly, except that I heard my stepfather denounce the doctor as an infernal cur and blackguard.

From Project Gutenberg

Diard was, therefore, not a mere commonplace gambler who is seen to be a blackguard, and ends by begging.

From Project Gutenberg

“You blackguard,” said Eric, standing irresolutely for a few minutes; and then with tears in his eyes began to climb the wall.

From Project Gutenberg

If you had not prevented him, that blackguard would have used abusive language to me and ranged himself on your side.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a drunken-looking blackguard opposite us in church,” he said to his son as they drove home; “do you know who he was?

From Project Gutenberg