Blackguardry

/ˈblækɡɑrdri/ noun

Definition

Dishonorable or unscrupulous behavior; the conduct or character of a blackguard.

Etymology

From 'blackguard' + '-ry' (noun suffix indicating a practice or quality). Similar to how 'witchcraft' and 'villainy' form abstract nouns from person nouns.

Kelly Says

Blackguardry was a favorite insult in the 1700s and 1800s when you wanted to suggest someone was behaving like a complete scoundrel—it's more poetic than just calling someone a jerk.

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