Bastard

/ˈbæstərd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person born of parents not married to each other; an illegitimate child.

He grew up knowing he was a bastard and struggled with the stigma attached to it.

An insulting term used for a person regarded as unpleasant or despicable.

Don't be such a bastard; you know that was a terrible thing to say!

A term used to refer to something of inferior quality.

This bastard of a car broke down on me again.

adjective

Of or relating to a person born of parents not married to each other.

The story revolves around a bastard child seeking to claim his inheritance.

Used to express anger or frustration towards someone.

That bastard thief stole my wallet right out of my bag!

Middle English 'bastard', from Old French 'bastard' (meaning 'illegitimate child'), from 'bast', meaning 'a bundle' or 'provided with a receptacle'.

bastardization

The mixing of cultures or languages in a way that creates something of inferior quality.

bastard child

Refers to a child born out of wedlock.

illegitimate

Born of parents not married to each other.

scoundrel

A dishonest person; a rogue.

rascal

A mischievous or cheeky person, often used affectionately.

A person who is disliked or considered bad.

That guy is such a bastard, no one wants to work with him.

An expression to signify annoyance or frustration.

What a bastard move to steal my idea!