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Bastardy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ถ
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bastardy

[หˆbรฆstษ™rdi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social status

Bastardy refers to the status of being born to parents who are not married to each other, and it often carries a stigma of illegitimacy. Historically, individuals labeled as bastards faced various forms of discrimination and were often denied certain rights and inheritances. In many societies, this label could have profound social and legal implications, affecting one's standing in the community and family. The term has seen varied usage over time, evolving from a strict legal classification to a more colloquial reference to illegitimate birth.

Synonyms

illegitimacy, illegitimate birth, outsider.

Examples of usage

  • He was raised in a society where bastardy was frowned upon.
  • Bastardy often impacted inheritance laws in the past.
  • Legally, bastardy cases could determine paternity and child support.

Translations

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Origin of 'bastardy'

The term 'bastardy' originates from the Old French word 'bastard', which itself derives from the late Latin 'bastardus'. The etymology is often linked to the Latin 'bastum', meaning 'a young man', although its exact lineage remains somewhat unclear. The term has been in use since the Middle Ages, reflecting societal attitudes towards illegitimate children. Historically, bastards were often viewed unfavorably and faced significant legal and social disadvantages. In medieval times, legitimate birth was crucial for inheritance of titles and property, and being labeled as a bastard often meant exclusion from these rights. Over time, while the legal implications have loosened in many cultures, the social stigma associated with bastardy has lingered.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,889, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.