Duellist: meaning, definitions and examples
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duellist
[ ˈdjuːəlist ]
historical combat
A duellist is an individual who engages in a duel, a formalized fight between two people, often to settle a dispute or uphold one's honor. Duellists typically adhere to a specific code of conduct and use agreed-upon weapons, such as swords or pistols. The practice of dueling has a long history, particularly in Europe, where it was once seen as a means of resolving conflicts among gentlemen. Duellists often face significant societal repercussions, including legal consequences and social ostracization, should they be caught engaging in such activities. Although dueling has largely fallen out of favor in modern society, it remains a popular subject in literature and film.
Synonyms
challenger, fencer, swordsman.
Examples of usage
- The famous duellist challenged his rival to a morning duel.
- Many duellists were considered gentlemen of honor in their time.
- The skills of a duellist were highly respected during the 18th century.
- He admired the artistry of the renowned duellist's swordsmanship.
Translations
Translations of the word "duellist" in other languages:
🇵🇹 duelista
🇮🇳 डुएलिस्ट
🇩🇪 Duelist
🇮🇩 duelist
🇺🇦 дуеліст
🇵🇱 duelista
🇯🇵 決闘者
🇫🇷 duelliste
🇪🇸 duelista
🇹🇷 düellocu
🇰🇷 결투자
🇸🇦 مبارز
🇨🇿 duelista
🇸🇰 duelista
🇨🇳 决斗者
🇸🇮 duelist
🇮🇸 duelisti
🇰🇿 дуэлист
🇬🇪 დუელისტი
🇦🇿 düellocu
🇲🇽 duelista
Etymology
The term 'duellist' originates from the Latin word 'duellum', which means 'war' or 'battle'. In the context of personal combat, it evolved into the formal practice of dueling during the Renaissance period in Europe. The practice became especially prominent in the 16th to 19th centuries among the aristocracy and gentlemen, who viewed it as a necessary means to settle matters of honor and reputation. Duels were often governed by strict codes of conduct, outlining the terms, weapons, and methods used. While the act of dueling has waned significantly in contemporary society, the term 'duellist' remains to describe those who engage in this historic practice, often romanticized in literature and cinema as symbols of honor and bravery.