Desperado Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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desperado
[หdษspษหrษหdoส ]
Definition
lawless person
A desperado refers to a bold, reckless, or lawless person, often associated with a criminal lifestyle. The term is commonly used to describe cowboys or outlaws in the American West during the late 19th century. Desperados are typically portrayed as individuals who live outside the law and engage in activities that are dangerous or violent. The word carries a sense of danger and defiance, illustrating someone who is willing to take risks without regard for consequences.
Synonyms
bandit, outlaw, rebel, ruffian.
Examples of usage
- The movie features a desperado who roams the wild west.
- Legends of the old town often speak of a famous desperado.
- The sheriff sought to capture the local desperado causing chaos.
- In folklore, desperados are often romanticized characters.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- In the 19th century American Wild West, 'desperados' were notorious outlaws and bandits, renowned for their lawlessness.
- Famous figures such as Jesse James and Billy the Kid were considered desperados, embodying a rebellious spirit and challenging authority.
Pop Culture
- The Eaglesโ classic song 'Desperado' highlights feelings of loneliness and the struggles of someone living life on the edge.
- Films like 'Desperado' starring Antonio Banderas showcase a modern interpretation of the archetype, mixing romance with danger.
Psychology
- People labeled as desperados often exhibit risk-taking behavior due to factors like desperation, trauma, or socio-economic conditions.
- The archetype can reflect a deeper search for identity or belonging, driving individuals toward extreme choices.
Literature
- In literature, the desperado often symbolizes rebellion against societal norms, representing the fight for personal freedom.
- Classic Western novels often feature desperado characters that serve as anti-heroes, grappling with their past decisions.
Origin of 'desperado'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'desperado' comes from the Spanish word 'desesperado', meaning 'desperate'.
- It originally referred to someone who had no hope left, often leading to reckless behavior.
The word 'desperado' originates from the Spanish term 'desesperado', meaning 'desperate'. The term came into English usage in the 19th century, particularly during the western expansion in the United States. It was often used to describe individuals who acted out of desperation, often resorting to crime or violence. The romanticized portrayal of these characters in literature and film contributed to the enduring image of the desperado as a roguish hero. This evolution reflects a broader cultural context where the figure of the outlaw emerged as both a source of fear and fascination during a period marked by lawlessness and frontier justice.