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Roué: meaning, definitions and examples

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roué

 

[ruːˈeɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

French origin

A man devoted to a life of sensual pleasure; a rake.

Synonyms

playboy, rake, womanizer.

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Word Description / Examples
roué

This word is often used to describe an older man with a wealthy background who has a history of indulging in immoral or debauched behavior, typically involving women. It carries a negative connotation and implies a sense of decadence and moral corruption.

  • The aging roué spent his evenings in the city's most luxurious establishments, always surrounded by a flock of admirers.
  • Despite his charm, his reputation as a roué made him unwelcome in respectable circles.
rake

The term 'rake' is an old-fashioned word describing a man who leads an immoral or promiscuous life, particularly by seducing women. It carries a historical and somewhat literary connotation, often used in classic literature.

  • In many 18th-century novels, the villain is often portrayed as a charming yet dangerous rake.
  • His reputation as a rake was well-known among the socialites of the town.
playboy

This term is typically used to refer to a wealthy, carefree young man who enjoys a lifestyle filled with parties, leisure activities, and romantic adventures. It suggests a more glamorous and less morally charged image compared to 'roué'.

  • He was known as a playboy, always seen at the hottest parties and on the arms of beautiful women.
  • Living the life of a playboy, he showed little interest in taking over the family business.
womanizer

This word is used to describe a man who frequently pursues relationships with many women, often simultaneously, without serious intent. It has a strongly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of respect for women and their feelings.

  • His colleague warned her that he was a womanizer, notorious for his short-lived flings.
  • She decided to break up with him after realizing that he was a habitual womanizer.

Examples of usage

  • He was known as a notorious roué, constantly surrounded by beautiful women.
  • The novel's main character was portrayed as a charming roué who lived for pleasure.
  • She was warned to stay away from the roué at the party, as his reputation preceded him.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the French word 'roué', meaning 'broken' or 'worn out', suggesting a life of excess.
  • Originally used to describe a debauched lifestyle, it became popular in the English language in the 19th century.

Historical Context

  • In the 18th century, 'roué' referred to aristocrats who indulged in gambling, drinking, and romantic escapades.
  • The word gained prominence during the French Revolution, symbolizing excess and moral decay among the nobility.

Literature

  • The character of the 'roué' often appears in French literature, depicting the struggles between morality and hedonism.
  • Writers like Honoré de Balzac used the concept to explore themes of decadence in society.

Pop Culture

  • Roué is often featured in films and novels as a charming yet irresponsible character who enchants others but faces consequences.
  • Modern interpretations often portray the roué as a gentleman with flaws, balancing charm and self-indulgence.

Psychology

  • The lifestyle of a 'roué' can reflect a desire for freedom and enjoyment, but can also hint at deeper issues like escapism.
  • Such characters often struggle with the balance between pleasure-seeking and the repercussions on relationships and responsibilities.

Translations

Translations of the word "roué" in other languages:

🇵🇹 devasso

🇮🇳 व्यभिचारी (vyabhichari)

🇩🇪 Wüstling

🇮🇩 bejat

🇺🇦 розпусник

🇵🇱 rozpustnik

🇯🇵 放蕩者 (ほうとうしゃ, hōtōsha)

🇫🇷 débauché

🇪🇸 libertino

🇹🇷 çapkın

🇰🇷 방탕자 (bangtangja)

🇸🇦 فاسق (fasiq)

🇨🇿 prostopášník

🇸🇰 zhýralec

🇨🇳 放荡者 (fàngdàng zhě)

🇸🇮 razvratnež

🇮🇸 lauslátur maður

🇰🇿 азғын

🇬🇪 გამრჯე (gamrje)

🇦🇿 əxlaqsız

🇲🇽 libertino

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,139, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.