Meaning of "caitiff" in English

The word "caitiff" in English is an archaic term that refers to a cowardly or despicable person. Historically, it was used to describe someone who was not only craven but also morally reprehensible. The term could refer to a villain or a wretch, often implying a lack of courage or a betrayal of noble ideals. Over time, its usage has diminished, but it remains a rich descriptor of contemptible character in literary contexts.

Meaning of "caitiff" in French

In French, "caitiff" is similarly an archaic word that bears the meaning of a cowardly or contemptible person. While it shares its roots with the English term, its usage in modern French is extremely rare and primarily found in classical texts or historical discussions. The word depicts someone seen as base or ignoble, often marked by ethical or moral weaknesses.

Pronunciation of "caitiff" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈkeɪtɪf/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "caitiff" in English doesn't exhibit significant regional variation, largely because it is an archaic term not commonly used in conversation. Its pronunciation remains relatively consistent across English-speaking regions.

Pronunciation of "caitiff" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /kɛtif/

Pronunciation Variations: As with its English counterpart, the French pronunciation of "caitiff" shows little regional variation. Due to its rare use in contemporary French, its pronunciation remains standard.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The literature knight was no caitiff despite his fears. (Le chevalier de la littérature n'était pas un caitiff malgré ses peurs.)

  2. His betrayal branded him as a caitiff in the annals of history. (Sa trahison l'a marqué comme un caitiff dans les annales de l'histoire.)

  3. In tales of old, the caitiff is often outwitted by the hero. (Dans les contes anciens, le caitiff est souvent déjoué par le héros.)

  4. The caitiff was driven out of the village for his cowardice. (Le caitiff a été chassé du village pour sa lâcheté.)

  5. No one expected the seemingly strong leader to turn out a caitiff. (Personne ne s'attendait à ce que le leader apparemment fort se révèle un caitiff.)

  6. The caitiff knight fled the battle, abandoning his comrades. (Le chevalier caitiff a fui la bataille, abandonnant ses camarades.)

  7. The poem described the character as a caitiff, unworthy of respect. (Le poème décrivait le personnage comme un caitiff, indigne de respect.)

  8. In medieval times, being labeled a caitiff was a grave insult. (Au Moyen Âge, être qualifié de caitiff était une grave insulte.)

  9. The traitor stood before the king, perceived as a caitiff by all. (Le traître se tenait devant le roi, perçu comme un caitiff par tous.)

  10. Stories of the caitiff were told to warn young squires. (Des histoires du caitiff étaient racontées pour mettre en garde les jeunes écuyers.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "caitiff" in English

Synonyms: coward, wretch, villain, dastard, poltroon, craven, traitor, deserter, weakling, scoundrel.

Antonyms: hero, brave, champion, defender, paragon, rescuer, stalwart, gallant, guardian, protector.

Similar Words: miscreant, rogue, knave, rascal, varlet, blighter, snake, rat, cad, blackguard.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "caitiff" in French

Synonyms: lâche, poltron, misérable, indignité, scélérat, canaille, vaurien, félon.

Antonyms: héros, courageux, champion, défenseur, protecteur, brave, preux.

Similar Words: mécréant, fripon, gredin, traître, rat, crapule, vil.

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