Rakish: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the 17th century and is likely derived from 'rakehell', referring to a dissolute or extravagant person.
• In its earliest uses, it described someone who was bold and lived life to the fullest, often disregarding rules.
• It has roots in the word 'rakishness', which means a carefree or slightly disreputable quality.

Literature

• In literature, rakish characters are often seen as charming rogues, drawn from classic novels like those by Jane Austen.
• A rakish hero may be the one who breaks social norms, creating tension with more conventional characters.
• The term has appeared in various literary contexts to define characters who are both appealing and reckless.

Fashion

• The concept of rakishness often overlaps with fashion, where a rakish individual may wear stylish, sometimes unconventional outfits.
• Styles described as rakish can include fancy hats or bold accessories that reflect a playful attitude towards dress.
• Icons like James Dean and modern fashion figures embody rakish attributes through their distinct, edgy styles.

Cultural References

• The rakish persona has been popular in films, with characters often portrayed as charming yet unreliable.
• In contemporary pop culture, rakishness can be seen in music and celebrity styles that challenge traditional norms.
• The rakish appeal plays into the idea of living life on the edge, imbuing a sense of adventure and intrigue.

Psychology

• Rakish individuals often elicit fascination due to their nonconformity, tapping into human curiosity about risk-taking behavior.
• There's a psychological allure associated with rebellion, as rakishness often signifies a challenge to societal expectations.
• People are typically drawn to rakish figures due to their confidence, which can act as a source of inspiration or envy.

This word's position of #32,177 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

• ...
• 32174 rejuvenating
• 32175 fantasizing
• 32176 vetoing
• 32177 rakish
• 32178 stumpy
• 32179 pinball
• 32180 polarize
• ...