noun
blackguard
BLA-guhd
Blackguard (noun) means a dishonest or thoroughly unpleasant person; a scoundrel. Example: “Only a blackguard would abandon his own family like that.”
noun
1
A dishonest or thoroughly unpleasant person; a scoundrel.
"Only a blackguard would abandon his own family like that."
verb
1
To insult or abuse someone with harsh, foul language.
"He blackguarded the referee after the decision went against him."
How to use blackguard
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old-fashioned word for a scoundrel or villain.
When to use it
Old-fashioned; rarely used in modern speech.
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Word forms
- Plural
- blackguards
- Third person singular
- blackguards
- Past tense
- blackguarded
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Only a _____ would abandon his own family like that.
Etymology
From black and guard, originally referring to the lowest kitchen servants of a great house, who were often stained with soot and grime from their work.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for blackguard
See all rhymes for blackguard →Frequently asked questions
What does “blackguard” mean?
The word “blackguard” means a dishonest or thoroughly unpleasant person; a scoundrel. In plain terms, an old-fashioned word for a scoundrel or villain.
How do you pronounce “blackguard”?
“Blackguard” is pronounced BLA-guhd (/ˈblæɡɚd/ in IPA).
How do you use “blackguard” in a sentence?
Here is “blackguard” used in a sentence: “Only a blackguard would abandon his own family like that.”
What part of speech is “blackguard”?
Depending on how it is used, “blackguard” can be a noun and a verb.
How many meanings does “blackguard” have?
“Blackguard” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a dishonest or thoroughly unpleasant person; a scoundrel.
