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Wretch: meaning, definitions and examples

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wretch

 

[retʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

pitiful creature

A wretch is a pitiful creature, someone who is in a very unfortunate or miserable situation. It can also refer to a person who is despicable or contemptible.

Synonyms

despicable, miserable, unfortunate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wretch

This term can describe someone in a pitiable, miserable condition or someone behaving in a morally bad way. It often evokes sympathy or disdain.

  • The poor wretch lay shivering in the cold.
  • He acted like a wretch, lying and cheating to get his way.
miserable

This word describes a state of great unhappiness or discomfort. It is often used to express empathy or describe a very unpleasant situation.

  • She felt miserable after hearing the bad news.
  • Living in such conditions would make anyone miserable.
unfortunate

This term refers to someone who is experiencing bad luck or unlucky circumstances. It can evoke empathy and concern.

  • It was unfortunate that he missed his flight.
  • Many unfortunate families lost their homes in the flood.
despicable

This is used for someone or something that deserves strong condemnation and contempt. It has a negative connotation.

  • Cheating on the exam was a despicable act.
  • She couldn't believe his despicable behavior.

Examples of usage

  • He was a wretch, begging on the streets for food.
  • She felt like a wretch after betraying her best friend's trust.
Context #2 | Noun

insulting term

In a more informal context, wretch can be used as an insulting term to describe someone in a derogatory manner.

Synonyms

rascal, scoundrel, villain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wretch

Used to describe a person who is in a very unfortunate or miserable condition. It can also imply someone who is pitiable or deserving of compassion.

  • The poor wretch shivered in the cold, begging for help
  • She felt like a wretch after losing everything
scoundrel

Refers to a person who behaves dishonestly or unfairly. It often has a negative connotation and indicates a lack of moral integrity.

  • That scoundrel stole my wallet! He's nothing but a scoundrel, lying and cheating his way through life
rascal

Typically used in a light-hearted or affectionate way to refer to someone who is mischievous or playful but not really harmful.

  • You little rascal, always up to some kind of trouble! The kids were being rascals, playing pranks on each other
villain

Used to describe someone who is evil or wicked, often in a dramatic or exaggerated way. Commonly used in stories, movies, and plays to indicate the main antagonist.

  • The villain in the story plotted to take over the world
  • She played the role of the villain with convincing evilness

Examples of usage

  • Don't listen to him, he's just a wretch trying to bring you down.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'wreccan,' meaning to drive away or oppress.
  • It evolved through Middle English as 'wrecche,' referring to someone afflicted or driven out, suggesting misfortune.
  • The word has roots linked to concepts of misery and suffering across different Germanic languages.

Literature

  • In literature, wretches often symbolize the consequences of social injustice or personal failings, reflecting societal attitudes toward the downtrodden.
  • Famous authors like John Milton and Charles Dickens depicted wretches to evoke empathy and highlight class struggles in their works.
  • Shakespeare used the term in several of his plays, showcasing the complexity of human suffering and character flaws.

Psychology

  • Feeling like a wretch can stem from low self-esteem, where individuals perceive themselves as hopeless or unworthy.
  • The concept is often connected to feelings of guilt or shame, which can lead to negative personal narratives.
  • Therapeutic techniques can help individuals reframe their identity, moving from feelings of wretchedness towards self-acceptance.

Pop Culture

  • The term is sometimes used in movies and books to describe characters who are down on their luck or face moral dilemmas.
  • In modern gaming, wretches may be represented as misunderstood villains or tragic heroes, showcasing the duality of misery and resilience.
  • Songs from various genres often reference wretches, encapsulating themes of heartbreak and longing.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have explored the state of being a wretch as a key aspect of the human condition, examining ideas of suffering as integral to personal growth.
  • Existentialist thinkers argue that facing one’s wretchedness can lead to profound realizations and self-awareness.
  • The contrast between a wretch and the content can highlight varying human experiences and the quest for meaning.

Translations

Translations of the word "wretch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desgraçado

🇮🇳 दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण

🇩🇪 Elend

🇮🇩 orang malang

🇺🇦 негідник

🇵🇱 nieszczęśnik

🇯🇵 哀れな人

🇫🇷 misérable

🇪🇸 desdichado

🇹🇷 zavallı

🇰🇷 불쌍한 사람

🇸🇦 بائس

🇨🇿 ubožák

🇸🇰 úbožiak

🇨🇳 可怜人

🇸🇮 ubožec

🇮🇸 vesalingur

🇰🇿 бейшара

🇬🇪 საწყალი

🇦🇿 bikəs

🇲🇽 desdichado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,359, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.