brigand
- a bandit, especially one of a band of robbers in mountain or forest regions.
Origin of brigand
Synonyms for brigand
Related Words for brigands
outlaw, desperado, thief, highwayman, bandit, soldier, pirate, robber, marauder, pillager, footpad, freebooterExamples from the Web for brigands
Contemporary Examples of brigands
The Rome government dismissed these peasant rebels as mere "brigands."
Oh how often have knowledge and keen wits and understandings/ Been as deadly as brigands or ghouls to the wayfarer.
Historical Examples of brigands
In April, 1870, a party of English travelers in Greece were seized by brigands.
The Grand Old ManRichard B. Cook
"Brigands of the Moon" is getting more and more interesting.
He was a victim of the band of brigands commanded by Beau-Francois.
A Zola DictionaryJ. G. Patterson
Angers has fallen, and now the brigands are threatening Nantes itself.
The Historical Nights' EntertainmentRafael Sabatini
What have you done with the fifteen brigands I sent you this evening?
The Historical Nights' EntertainmentRafael Sabatini
brigand
- a bandit or plunderer, esp a member of a gang operating in mountainous areas
Word Origin for brigand
Word Origin and History for brigands
brigand
c.1400, "lightly armed foot soldier," from Old French brigand (14c.), from Italian brigante "trooper, skirmisher, foot soldier," from brigare (see brigade). Sense of "one who lives by pillaging" is from early 15c., reflecting the lack of distinction between professional mercenary armies and armed, organized criminals.