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Arrant - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Arrant means complete or utter, often used to emphasize something negative or extreme. For example, arrant nonsense means absolute foolishness. It intensifies the quality described.

arrant

/ˈɛrənt/ /ˈærənt/

Definition:

Complete, utter, or extreme (used to emphasize something bad).

Synonyms:

utter, absolute, downright, unmitigated

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

partial, incomplete

Common Collocations:

arrant nonsense, arrant cowardice, arrant hypocrisy

Derivatives:

arrantly (adverb)

Usage Tips:

Use "arrant" before nouns to intensify negative qualities (e.g., "arrant fool"). Avoid overuse; it’s emphatic and formal.

Common Phrases:

arrant knave, arrant nonsense, arrant liar

Etymology:

From Middle English "erraunt," meaning wandering or vagabond; later evolved to imply extreme or notorious behavior.

Examples:

  • 1. The politician’s lies were arrant deceit.
  • 2. She dismissed his excuse as arrant nonsense.
  • 3. His behavior was an arrant display of selfishness.
  • 4. The critic called the film an arrant waste of time.

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