rapparee

[ rap-uh-ree ]

noun

1. an armed Irish freebooter or plunderer, especially of the 17th century.
2. any freebooter or robber.

rapparee

/ ˌræpəˈriː /

noun

1. an Irish irregular soldier of the late 17th century
2. obsolete.
   any plunderer or robber

Word History and Origins

Origin of rapparee¹

First recorded in 1680–90, rapparee is from the Irish word rapaire

Word History and Origins

Origin of rapparee¹

C17: from Irish rapairidhe pike, probably from English rapier

Example Sentences

The Rapparee took the letter, finished his glass of brandy, and disappeared to fulfil his commission.

From Project Gutenberg

Whilst matters were in this position, the Red Rapparee began gradually to lose the confidence of his unscrupulous employer.

From Project Gutenberg

Rapid was the rush they made to Brady's house, and the very first that entered it was the Red Rapparee.

From Project Gutenberg

In the meantime the sheriff had recognized the Rapparee, by a single glance, as the man that had robbed him.

From Project Gutenberg

We leave them now, in order that we may follow the sheriff and his party, who went to secure the body of the Red Rapparee.

From Project Gutenberg