Part of Speech

noun, adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbæs.tərd/

Definitions

• noun: A person born to parents who are not married to each other; an illegitimate child.
• noun: A person or thing regarded as inferior or contemptible.
• adjective: Born of parents who are not married to each other; illegitimate.
• adjective: Offensive, rude, or insulting; used to describe someone with bad character.

Usage Examples

• He was called a bastard due to his illegitimate birth.
• The villain in the novel was a cruel bastard who showed no mercy.
• Despite being a bastard, he proved to be a successful entrepreneur.

Etymology

The word "bastard" comes from the Old French term bastard, meaning "child born out of wedlock," derived from Medieval Latin bastardus, meaning "illegitimate child." The root of the term is believed to refer to the French word bast (meaning "a pack-saddle," a likely reference to the idea of something being "illegitimate" or "not properly placed").

Synonyms

• illegitimate
• out-of-wedlock
• love child
• child born out of wedlock
• scoundrel
• rascal
• villain

Antonyms

• legitimate
• lawful
• recognized
• honorable

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "bastard" is often pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable (/ˈbæs.tərd/).
• In British English, the pronunciation tends to be more neutral but may include a softer "r" sound in some dialects (/ˈbæs.təd/).

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "bastard" referred to children born outside of marriage and often carried a social stigma. It was a legal term used to describe someone who was denied inheritance rights due to their illegitimate birth. Over time, the word evolved into a derogatory term used to insult someone's character or origins, not just in the context of parentage.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the term "bastard" was once seen as a mark of shame, especially for the child. In some societies, it was tied to notions of legitimacy, social status, and inheritance rights. However, over time, its use expanded beyond its original meaning to insult someone's behavior or personality. It is important to note that in contemporary contexts, the word is considered offensive when used to insult individuals, and its historical connotation is increasingly less relevant in modern times.

More Information

The word "bastard" has undergone significant cultural shifts, with its historical use now mostly confined to legal contexts or discussions of social and cultural norms. Today, its use as an insult is controversial, and many advocate for replacing it with more neutral or respectful language. Its continuing presence in pop culture, literature, and history, however, reveals the persistence of societal taboos related to birth and family status.