miscreant

IPA

The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

Dictionary definition of miscreant

A person who behaves badly or breaks the law, particularly in a way that harms or victimizes others.
"The miscreant's criminal record made it difficult for him to find employment."

Detailed meaning of miscreant

The term is often used to describe someone who is seen as immoral, wicked, or malevolent, and who shows no remorse for their actions. While 'miscreant' is sometimes used to describe someone who engages in relatively minor misbehavior, it is often reserved for those who commit serious offenses, such as violent crimes or acts of cruelty. In some contexts, the term can also be used more broadly to describe people who violate social norms or cultural taboos, or who engage in behavior that is seen as unethical or inappropriate. Despite its negative connotations, the term 'miscreant' is still used today in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in legal or law enforcement settings.

Example sentences containing miscreant

1. The miscreant fled before the police could apprehend him.
2. That miscreant stole my grandmother's purse yesterday!
3. Among the crowd, the miscreant hid, watching closely.
4. Authorities are on the lookout for a miscreant known for scams.
5. The miscreant's actions had a negative impact on the whole community.
6. Beware of the miscreant who lurks in the shadows after dark.

History and etymology of miscreant

The noun 'miscreant' has an etymology that can be traced back to Old French and Latin. It is derived from the Old French word 'miscreant,' which means 'unbelieving' or 'wicked,' and this Old French term is influenced by the Latin word 'miscredentem,' the present participle of 'miscredere,' which combines 'mis,' meaning 'wrongly' or 'badly,' and 'credere,' meaning 'to believe.' In Latin, 'miscredere' signified a lack of belief or faith. 'Miscreant' entered the English language in the 14th century and is used to describe a person who behaves badly or breaks the law, particularly in a way that harms or victimizes others. Its etymology underscores the association with unbelief or wickedness, as implied by its Old French and Latin roots, emphasizing the negative connotations associated with individuals who engage in wrongful or harmful behavior.

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Further usage examples of miscreant

1. Many believe the legend of a miscreant who haunted the old mansion.
2. The village banded together to expel the miscreant causing havoc.
3. Despite his demeanor, he turned out to be quite the miscreant.
4. As a child, he had been a miscreant, but he changed his ways.
5. The miscreant had left a trail of victims in his wake.
6. Could a miscreant like him ever find redemption?
7. The film followed a miscreant's journey from crime to atonement.
8. She had a knack for identifying a miscreant in any crowd.
9. Every city has its miscreants, and ours was no exception.
10. "Unmask the miscreant!" yelled the mob, filled with rage.
11. The miscreant, though cunning, eventually met his match.
12. Legends spoke of a miscreant who could control minds.
13. "You can reform," she whispered to the captured miscreant.
14. The miscreant smirked, believing he'd evaded justice once again.
15. They laid a trap to catch the notorious miscreant in action.
16. Unbeknownst to all, the miscreant had an accomplice.
17. The town's tales always warned children of the miscreant's tricks.
18. The miscreant left his signature mark at every crime scene.
19. News headlines alerted citizens about the miscreant's latest scheme.