varlet

[ vahr-lit ]

noun

, Archaic.

1. a knavish person; rascal.
2. 1. an attendant or servant.
   2. a page who serves a knight.

varlet

/ ˈvɑːlɪt /

noun

1. a menial servant
2. a knight's page
3. a rascal

Word History and Origins

Origin of varlet¹

1425–75; late Middle English < Middle French; variant of valet

Word History and Origins

Origin of varlet¹

C15: from Old French, variant of vallet valet

Example Sentences

He had been regarding with interest a shackled-kneed varlet holding a halberd in his arms as if it had been a fractious bairn.

From Project Gutenberg

A white mule with red trappings, led by a varlet, carried Sir Nigel's own napery and table comforts.

From Project Gutenberg

Neither varlet nor ostler could be seen, so he pushed open the door and called loudly for the landlord.

From Project Gutenberg

Then the varlet went his way and came to the manor, and saluted the lady, and told her from whence he came.

From Project Gutenberg

And when he had done and ended this battle, anon he called to him his varlet, the which brought him his horse.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• knave
• miscreant
• rascal
• rogue
• scalawag
• villain
• wretch