Blackguard
/ˈblæk.ɡɑːd/noun
A vulgar or contemptible person.
Did you know?The word began as a label for menial household servants in black livery, then slid into insult as English speakers turned social rank into moral judgment.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
black garde
“A servant in black livery; a menial attendant”
16th Century
English
black guard
“A low-ranking servant or attendant, often used contemptuously”
17th Century
English
blackguard
“A scoundrel, rogue, or worthless person”
Modern English
English
blackguard
“A contemptible or dishonest person”