swashbuckler

American  

[swosh-buhk-ler, swawsh-] / ˈswɒʃˌbʌk lər, ˈswɔʃ- /

Sometimes swasher

noun

1. a swaggering swordsman, soldier, or adventurer; daredevil.

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swashbuckler British  

/ ˈswɒʃˌbʌklə /

noun

1. a swaggering or flamboyant adventurer

2. a film, book, play, etc, depicting excitement and adventure, esp in a historical setting

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Etymology

Origin of swashbuckler

First recorded in 1550–60; swash + buckler

Explanation

Use the noun swashbuckler for a romantic daredevil, especially one you read about in a book or watch onscreen in a movie. Though the word preceded him by about 400 years, swashbuckler may as well have been retired with Errol Flynn, the Australian actor who was well known in the 1930's and 40's for playing a variety of roles as a swashbuckler. The word, from English components, literally means "one who makes a noise by striking his own or his opponent's shield with his sword." In the 1540's, a swashbuckler was more popularly known as a "swash."

Example Sentences

He had a bit of swashbuckler in him, more like an astronaut than a desk engineer.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 17, 2023

Welch starred as Constance Bonacieux in this 1974 swashbuckler film.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2023

Trump created an interesting persona who embodied both an unconventional politician and an unpredictable swashbuckler.

From Salon • Dec. 23, 2022

“She knew there was a swashbuckler inside me,” he said.

From Washington Post • Sep. 8, 2022

Penelope looked around but saw only moss, trees, and some lovely specimens of the common but ruggedly attractive swashbuckler fern, with its long, swordlike fronds and thick stems that were sturdy as peg legs.

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• adventurer