rogue
Rogue (noun) means a dishonest or unprincipled person; a scoundrel. Example: “The old con man was a lovable rogue who never quite went straight.”
How to use rogue
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a dishonest character, or something (a wave, a state, a program) that has broken loose from normal control and become unpredictable or dangerous.
In gaming, "rogue" also names a stealth-focused character class — a specialized sense distinct from the everyday meaning of scoundrel.
Word forms
more rogue comparative, rogued past tense, rogues plural, Rogues plural, rogues singular, most rogue superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The old con man was a lovable _____ who never quite went straight.
Etymology
Origin disputed — possibly from an older English word for a wandering beggar who posed as a poor scholar, itself perhaps from Latin rogare ("to ask, beg"); or from a French word meaning "arrogant, haughty".
Related words
Rhymes for rogue
See all rhymes for rogue →Frequently asked questions
What does “rogue” mean?
The word “rogue” means a dishonest or unprincipled person; a scoundrel. In plain terms, either a dishonest character, or something (a wave, a state, a program) that has broken loose from normal control and become unpredictable or dangerous.
How do you pronounce “rogue”?
“Rogue” is pronounced ROHG (/ˈɹoʊ̯ɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “rogue” in a sentence?
Here is “rogue” used in a sentence: “The old con man was a lovable rogue who never quite went straight.”
What part of speech is “rogue”?
Depending on how it is used, “rogue” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “rogue” come from?
The word “rogue” comes from Latin. Origin disputed — possibly from an older English word for a wandering beggar who posed as a poor scholar, itself perhaps from Latin rogare ("to ask, beg"); or from a French word meaning "arrogant, haughty".
Is “rogue” a common word?
“Rogue” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “rogue” have?
“Rogue” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a dishonest or unprincipled person; a scoundrel.
What is the difference between a 'rogue' and a 'villain'?
A 'rogue' is a dishonest or mischievous person, and the word can be almost affectionate, suggesting a charming scoundrel. A 'villain' is more strongly negative, implying real cruelty or evil rather than roguish trickery.
What nouns commonly follow 'rogue' as an adjective?
Common pairings include 'rogue state,' 'rogue agent,' 'rogue trader,' and 'rogue wave.' In each, 'rogue' signals something operating dangerously outside normal control or expectation.
Is 'rogue' always an insult?
Not always. Used of a person it can be light-hearted or even fond, as in calling a cheeky child a 'little rogue.' In its adjective sense, however, 'rogue' usually warns of something unpredictable or dangerous.