caitiff

American  

[key-tif] / ˈkeɪ tɪf /

noun

1. a base, despicable person.

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adjective

1. base; despicable.

caitiff British  

/ ˈkeɪtɪf /

noun

1. a cowardly or base person

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adjective

1. cowardly; base

Etymology

Origin of caitiff

1250–1300; Middle English caitif < Anglo-French < Latin captīvus captive

Example Sentences

To be reserved and caitiff in goodness is the sordidest piece of covetousness, and more contemptible than pecuniary Avarice.

From Project Gutenberg

And it may be right well, that they were either fools or ungracious caitiffs.

From Project Gutenberg

Craven caitiff! know that none Unto him shall do dishonor, While I live, save God alone.

From Project Gutenberg

And will any one say that he is not a miserable caitiff who sells his own divine being to that which is most godless and detestable and has no pity?

From Project Gutenberg

I'll jot down in my tablet all these caitiffs and their accursed names, for knowledge is knowledge.

From Project Gutenberg