Avaunt - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

archaic expression

Avaunt is an archaic term that means to go away or to depart. It is often used in a commanding or dismissive manner, much like telling someone to 'be gone' or 'get lost'. This word evokes a sense of urgency in the command, often used in a dramatic or literary context. Its usage today is quite rare and mostly found in historical or poetic texts.

Synonyms

be gone, depart, leave.

Examples of usage

Avaunt, thou troublesome spirit!
The knight cried, 'Avaunt!' as the dragon approached.
In the play, the ghost commanded, 'Avaunt, and leave this place!'

Interesting Facts

Literature

The term has appeared in classic literature, notably in Shakespeare’s works, where it conveys a sense of grand announcement.
In some poems, it’s used to add a dramatic flair when calling out for attention or declaring a message.
From medieval tales to modern fantasy, characters might 'avaunt' before delivering heroic deeds.

Cultural Usage

'Avaunt!' is often used in a theatrical context, emphasizing a character's boldness or restrictions placed on others.
In some cultures, announcing oneself 'avaunt' before entering a space shows respect and confidence.
The expression has dwindled in common use, yet it remains popular in poetic circles and among writers.

Historical Origins

'Avaunt' was commonly used in the late Middle Ages, a time when theatrical performances were a popular form of entertainment.
In medieval courts, courtiers often 'avaunted' their noble lineage when presenting themselves to royalty.
The word captured the essence of medieval pride and the contemporary need to stand out in a crowd.

Modern Usage

While now archaic, 'avaunt' might still be recognized in fantasy novels, especially those influenced by older language.
It has inspired modern authors to include archaic words to evoke a sense of nostalgia or to build a specific setting.
Some mock-epic poetry utilizes the term to playfully elevate mundane announcements to something significant.

Origin of 'avaunt'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'ab ante', meaning 'from before' or 'from ahead'.
It evolved in Middle English as 'avaunten', which meant to boast or announce.
Originally, it was often used in a religious or poetic context to denote calling attention.

The word 'avaunt' traces its roots back to Middle English and Old French. It is derived from the Old French word 'avancer', which means 'to advance', combined with the prefix 'a-' indicating 'to' or 'toward'. The word has existed in various forms within the English language since at least the 14th century. Its usage dwindled with the evolution of the English language, leading to a preference for more modern expressions of the same meaning. Despite its decline in everyday language, 'avaunt' has persisted in literary and theatrical contexts, often evoking a sense of historical drama or fantasy.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,589, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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39586 klutz
39587 tailgating
39588 clopping
39589 avaunt
39590 sackful
39591 nightjar
39592 oxygenating
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Avaunt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations