Brigand: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿดโ€โ˜ ๏ธ
Add to dictionary

brigand

 

[หˆbrษชษกษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

criminal activity

A brigand is a member of a gang that ambushes and robs people in forests or mountains. Historically, brigands have been associated with rural areas where they could hide easily after committing crimes. They often operated in groups and were notorious for their violent methods. The term conjures images of outlaws and bandits that disrupt societal norms and rob travelers. They have often been romanticized in folklore but were generally regarded as dangerous criminals.

Synonyms

bandit, outlaw, raider, robber.

Examples of usage

  • The brigands attacked the merchant's caravan at dawn.
  • Local lore warned travelers to avoid the brigands in the mountains.
  • The tale of the brigand became legendary in the nearby village.
  • Authorities struggled to contain the activities of the brigands.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Italian word 'brigante', which means 'robber' or 'bandit'.
  • Dating back to the early 17th century, 'brigand' was used in English literature to describe outlaws.
  • It comes from the Latin root 'brigare', which means 'to make war'.

Historical Context

  • During medieval times, brigands were often associated with banditry that plagued rural areas.
  • Brigands played significant roles in the lawless regions of Europe, often challenging local authorities and causing unrest.
  • In various historical accounts, brigands were sometimes portrayed as Robin Hood-type figures, stealing from the rich to give to the poor.

Pop Culture

  • In films and novels, brigands often appear as anti-heroes or villains, showcasing a romanticized version of outlaw life.
  • Famous stories like 'Pirates of the Caribbean' feature brigand-like characters who engage in adventurous thievery on the high seas.
  • The term is frequently used in video games to describe enemies that the player must fight or outsmart.

Literature

  • Classic authors like Alexandre Dumas included brigand characters in works like 'The Three Musketeers', adding drama and excitement.
  • In some folk tales, brigands are shown to have a code of honor, navigating complex moral landscapes.
  • Contemporary literature often uses brigands to explore themes of justice and survival in rugged landscapes.

Psychology

  • People sometimes romanticize brigandage as a form of rebelliousness against oppressive social structures.
  • The imagery of brigands can tap into themes of freedom versus law, often appealing to one's sense of adventure.
  • Psychologically, the idea of brigands can embody the struggle between societal norms and individual desires for autonomy.

Translations

Translations of the word "brigand" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น bandido

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคกเคพเค•เฅ‚

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Bandit

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ perampok

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฑะฐะฝะดะธั‚

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ bandyta

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็›—่ณŠ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท brigand

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ bandidos

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท haydut

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋„์ 

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู„ุต

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ bandita

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ bandita

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅผบ็›—

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ bandit

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ rรฆningji

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฑะฐะฝะดะธั‚

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ‘แƒแƒœแƒ“แƒ˜แƒขแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ quldur

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ bandido

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,461, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.