Everybody knows a modern word for that not-so-nice male: Scallywag, jerk, casanova, smartarse, sleaze, weasel, rat, snake, creep … I think you get the idea. But why not hide your insult with a clever, forgotten old-world word?
Ten Old-World Words to hide insult or use in your story.
Blackguard
[1500s/English] ….. A person, especially a male who believes in a dishonorable or contemptible way. A despicable villain.
Blatteroon
[1700s / English] ….. Tends to talk or boast consistently.
Cockalorum
[1700s / English with Dutch/Flemish origins] ….. Boastful, Pompous, Self-confident.
Earsgang
[Before 1600s / English] ….. Related to Arsehole and Anus – listed as vulgar slang. (No surprise there.)
Kickshaw
[1500s / English] ….. A dish that looks good but lacks substance. Look… I know you’re thinking this relates to food. But, have you not met someone to whom this could relate?
Mumpsimus
[1500s/English] ….. A stubborn person who refuses to change their mind despite being proven wrong.
Picaroon
[1600s] ….. Rogue, Thief, Cheat, (Adventurer).
Rapscallion
[1600s / English] ….. A rascally person; A scoundrel.
Snollygoster
[1800s / American] ….. A clever, unscrupulous person.
Ultracrepidarian
[1800s/English] ….. A person with opinions on subjects beyond their knowledge. A person who criticizes, judges, or gives advice outside the area of his or her expertise.
There you have it. How many of these old-world words describe someone you know or have written into your story?
References: The Little Book of Lost Words, Joe Gillard. (You can purchase it here or at other good bookstores). Dictionary.com. Babble.com
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Happy writing and reading.