Caitiff: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old French term 'catif,' which means 'captured' or 'captive,' reflecting a sense of weakness.
• It entered English in the 15th century, initially used to describe someone marked by cowardice or shame.

Literature

• Shakespeare famously used 'caitiff' in his plays to portray characters who were cowardly or treacherous.
• The term often appears in medieval literature, where knights would use it to insult those lacking honor or bravery.

Historical Usage

• During the Middle Ages, being called a caitiff was seen as a serious insult, suggesting dishonor and unworthiness.
• The term was often used in the context of chivalric culture, where bravery was highly valued.

Pop Culture

• The word occasionally pops up in fantasy novels and games, often to describe cowardly villains or scoundrels.
• Certain video games depict characters as caitiffs, using it to highlight their traits in humorous or extreme ways.

Psychology

• The concept relates to psychological traits where fear and anxiety may drive behavior, resembling traits described by the term.
• Character studies often explore the motivations behind caitiff-like behavior, pondering why some individuals might act out of fear rather than bravery.

Ranking #37,226, 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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• 37223 inimitably
• 37224 educe
• 37225 careen
• 37226 caitiff
• 37227 malus
• 37228 grumpily
• 37229 purvey
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