Knave - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A knave is a dishonest or unscrupulous man, often a trickster or rogue. Historically, it also referred to a male servant or a playing card, the jack. The term implies deceitfulness.
Definition:
A dishonest or unscrupulous man, often a rogue or trickster.
Synonyms:
rogue, scoundrel, rascal, villain
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
hero, saint
Common Collocations:
cunning knave, deceitful knave, notorious knave
Derivatives:
knavery, knavish
Usage Tips:
Use "knave" to describe a deceitful man, often in historical or literary contexts.
Common Phrases:
knave of hearts, a knave's trick
Etymology:
From Old English "cnafa," meaning boy or servant; later evolved to mean a dishonest man.
Examples:
- 1. The knave stole the king's jewels without remorse.
- 2. Shakespeare often portrayed characters as both heroes and knaves in his plays.
- 3. The villagers warned travelers about the local knave who cheated strangers.
- 4. In the story, the knave tricked the merchant into giving him gold.