rogue

IPA

The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

Dictionary definition of rogue

A person who behaves in an unprincipled or unpredictable manner, often causing trouble or harm to others.
"The rogue trader caused the company to lose millions of dollars."

Detailed meaning of rogue

A rogue individual may act recklessly or without regard for the consequences of their actions, and may have a history of deceit, dishonesty, or criminal behavior. The term 'rogue' can also be used to describe a nonconforming or independent entity, such as a rogue state or a rogue planet, that operates outside of established norms or expectations. In general, the word 'rogue' carries a negative connotation, and is often associated with untrustworthiness, danger, or unpredictability.

Example sentences containing rogue

1. The spy was a dangerous rogue who operated outside the law.
2. The thief was known as a skilled rogue who targeted high-profile targets.
3. The rogue trader caused significant financial losses for the company.
4. The rogue wave swept the beach, catching beachgoers off guard.
5. The organization's internal investigation exposed the actions of a rogue employee.
6. The rogue politician's scandalous behavior drew media attention.

History and etymology of rogue

The noun 'rogue' has an interesting etymology with origins in both French and Celtic languages. It is believed to have entered English from the Old French word 'rogue,' which meant 'arrogant' or 'haughty.' However, the term's deeper roots are traced to the Celtic languages, particularly the Irish word 'rógaire' and the Scots Gaelic word 'rog.' These Celtic terms referred to a vagrant or a wandering person, often with a negative connotation of someone living outside the bounds of society and engaging in unpredictable or unprincipled behavior. Over time, in English, 'rogue' came to describe a person who behaves in an unprincipled or unpredictable manner, often causing trouble or harm to others. The etymology of 'rogue' thus reflects its origins as a term for a social outsider or wanderer and its evolution into a label for someone who engages in troublesome or dishonest conduct.

Quiz: Find the meaning of rogue

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of rogue

1. The captain warned the crew about the presence of rogue pirates in the area.
2. The hacker infiltrated the system like a rogue in the digital realm.
3. The detective pursued the rogue detective who had gone rogue and turned against the force.
4. The forest was home to a rogue bear that posed a threat to hikers.
5. The rogue virus infected numerous computers, causing chaos.
6. The rogue actor in the play stole the show with their captivating performance.
7. The archaeologist discovered a hidden chamber that contained ancient rogue artifacts.
8. The rogue elephant caused havoc in the village, damaging property and crops.
9. The rogue scientist conducted unauthorized experiments in his secret lab.
10. The rogue asteroid posed a potential threat to Earth.
11. The rogue journalist exposed a government cover-up.
12. The city hired a team of rogue exterminators to deal with the rat infestation.
13. The rogue trader's schemes resulted in financial ruin for many investors.
14. The rogue dog managed to escape its leash and caused chaos in the park.