Meaning of blackguard in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈblæˌɡɑrd/

   US accent

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   UK accent

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1. Verb

   blackguard

   Definitions

   1. subject to laughter or ridicule

   Examples

   • « The satirists ridiculed the plans for a new opera house »
   • « The students poked fun at the inexperienced teacher »
   • « His former students roasted the professor at his 60th birthday »
2. 2. use foul or abusive language towards

   Examples

   • « The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket »
   • « The angry mother shouted at the teacher »

3. Noun

   blackguard

   Etymology

   early 16th century (originally as two words): from black+ guard. The term originally denoted a body of attendants or servants, especially the menials who had charge of kitchen utensils, but the exact significance of the epithet ‘black’ is uncertain. The sense ‘scoundrel, villain’ dates from the mid 18th century, and was formerly considered highly offensive

   Definitions

   1. someone who is morally reprehensible

   Examples

   • « you dirty dog »