Haggard
/ˈhæɡ.ərd/noun
Having a tired, worn, or gaunt appearance, often suggesting suffering or anxiety.
Did you know?Originally from Middle French, 'haggard' described a hawk captured in the wild, reflecting a state of wildness and untamed beauty, later morphing into a symbol of exhaustion and despair.
Etymological Timeline
Middle French
French
hagard
“A wild or untamed hawk, often one that has been captured.”
15th Century
English
haggard
“Describing a wild or untamed state, often used in reference to exhausted or gaunt appearance.”
16th Century
English
haggard
“Transitioned to describe someone looking worn out, reflecting mental or physical distress.”
Modern English
English
haggard
“Connoting a tired, gaunt appearance, often associated with suffering, anxiety, or hardship.”