Bachelor
/ˈbætʃ.ələr/noun
An unmarried man.
Did you know?The term 'bachelor' originally referred to a young knight or a young man in training, reflecting a time when chivalry and martial prowess were paramount.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
baccalarius
“A young man or apprentice, often associated with agricultural labor.”
Old French
Old French
bacheler
“A young man or novice, often referring to a young knight.”
Middle English
Middle English
bacheler
“An unmarried man, particularly a young knight.”
Modern English
Modern English
bachelor
“An unmarried man, especially one who is socially regarded as a young adult.”
Explore more surprising origins