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noun

brigand

BRIHG-uhnd

Brigand (noun) means an outlaw or bandit, especially one operating in a gang. Example: “Brigands used to ambush travellers along the mountain pass.”

noun
1
An outlaw or bandit, especially one operating in a gang.
"Brigands used to ambush travellers along the mountain pass."

How to use brigand

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old-fashioned word for an armed robber or bandit.

When to use it

A somewhat literary or old-fashioned word — "bandit" or "robber" are the everyday equivalents today.

Common pairings
a band of brigands mountain brigands

Word forms

brigands plural

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_____ used to ambush travellers along the mountain pass.

Etymology

From Old French brigand ("foot soldier"), from Italian briga ("trouble, strife").

Origin: Old French

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “brigand” mean?

The word “brigand” means an outlaw or bandit, especially one operating in a gang. In plain terms, an old-fashioned word for an armed robber or bandit.

How do you pronounce “brigand”?

“Brigand” is pronounced BRIHG-uhnd (/ˈbɹɪɡ.ənd/ in IPA).

How do you use “brigand” in a sentence?

Here is “brigand” used in a sentence: “Brigands used to ambush travellers along the mountain pass.”

What part of speech is “brigand”?

“Brigand” is a noun.

Where does the word “brigand” come from?

The word “brigand” comes from Old French. From Old French brigand ("foot soldier"), from Italian briga ("trouble, strife").

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