Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbrɪɡənd/

Definitions

• Noun: A member of a gang of robbers, typically one who operates in a rural or remote area.
• Noun: A person who engages in unlawful or criminal activities, especially theft or robbery.

Usage Examples

• "The brigand ambushed the caravan, stealing all its valuable goods."
• "A band of brigands terrorized the village for months before they were caught."
• "The brigand's motives were not purely financial, but also rooted in a desire for power."

Etymology

From the Italian word brigante, meaning "robber" or "bandit," which is derived from the Latin briga, meaning "strife" or "quarrel." The word entered English in the 16th century and was used to refer to outlaw groups in Italy and elsewhere in Europe.

Synonyms

• Bandit
• Outlaw
• Robber
• Ruffian
• Criminal

Antonyms

• Hero
• Lawman
• Innocent

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In some dialects of English, the word may be pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the first syllable, /ˈbrɪɡənd/.
• In certain regions of Italy, the pronunciation can reflect the local accent, with a different vowel sound in the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "brigand" was commonly used in 16th and 17th century Europe to describe outlaws or bandits who engaged in robbery, often in rural or remote areas. Historically, brigands were often part of larger criminal groups that operated outside the law. During the Renaissance, brigands were romanticized in literature and theater, though their activities were largely destructive to local communities. Over time, the term evolved to refer to any criminal involved in theft or banditry, regardless of location.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of brigands has often been tied to societal upheaval, war, and lawlessness. In various cultures, brigands were portrayed as both villains and anti-heroes, symbolizing resistance against oppressive forces. In some folklore, brigands are seen as outlaws with a sense of honor or justice, leading to their portrayal in ballads and legends. In modern times, the term has largely fallen out of use, but it remains a vivid symbol of rebellion and criminality in historical contexts.

More Information

Brigands were often associated with poverty, social unrest, and the breakdown of law and order. They typically operated in regions where state control was weak or absent, such as during times of war or in remote rural areas. The term "brigand" has historically carried a negative connotation, reflecting the criminal nature of their activities. However, modern portrayals often emphasize the social conditions that contributed to the rise of brigands, shedding light on their complex role in history.