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Bastard - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A bastard is an offensive term for a person born to unmarried parents. It can also be used as an insult to describe someone considered mean or unpleasant. The word is often considered vulgar.

bastard

/ˈbæstɚd/ /ˈbɑːstəd/

Definition:

An illegitimate child; a person regarded as unpleasant or despicable.

Synonyms:

scoundrel, rogue, rascal, cad

Part of Speech:

noun, adjective

Antonyms:

legitimate child, saint

Common Collocations:

poor bastard, lucky bastard, little bastard, mean bastard

Derivatives:

bastardize, bastardization

Usage Tips:

Use cautiously; can be highly offensive when referring to a person but informal in phrases like "lucky bastard."

Common Phrases:

lucky bastard, poor bastard, son of a bastard

Etymology:

From Old French "bastard," possibly derived from "bast" (pack saddle), implying a child born out of wedlock.

Examples:

  • 1. He called him a heartless bastard after the betrayal.
  • 2. The poor bastard lost his wallet on the bus.
  • 3. She joked that her cat was a little troublemaking bastard.
  • 4. The term "bastard sword" refers to a medieval weapon.

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