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Roué Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'roué'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'roué' originated in French, where it means 'worn out' or 'debauched'. It later evolved to refer to a man who indulges in sensual pleasures and is often associated with a playboy lifestyle. The term gained popularity in the 18th century to describe men who pursued pleasure without moral restraint. The image of a roué is often depicted in literature and art as a charismatic but morally dubious figure.

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.