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Wretch - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

wretch

/rɛtʃ/ /rɛtʃ/

Definition:

A miserable, unfortunate, or despicable person.

Synonyms:

scoundrel, villain, miscreant, outcast

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

hero, saint

Common Collocations:

poor wretch, miserable wretch, pitiful wretch

Derivatives:

wretched, wretchedness

Usage Tips:

Use "wretch" to describe someone pitiable or contemptible, often with sympathy or disdain.

Common Phrases:

poor wretch, miserable wretch, unhappy wretch

Etymology:

From Old English "wrecca," meaning exile or adventurer; later evolved to mean a pitiable person.

Examples:

  • 1. The poor wretch begged for food on the street.
  • 2. She called him a heartless wretch after he betrayed her trust.
  • 3. The old man was a lonely wretch with no family left.
  • 4. Don’t be such a wretch—help those in need!

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