MALAPERT Meaning and
Definition
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Malapert is an adjective that dates back to Middle English and is used to describe someone who is bold, impudent, or forward in speech or behavior. Typically, a malapert person exhibits a disrespectful or overconfident attitude, often displaying insolence or cheekiness towards authority figures or those perceived as superior to them.
Derived from the combination of the French word "mal", meaning "bad" or "wrong," and the Middle English word "apert," meaning "open" or "frank," malapert essentially implies an unwarranted and presumptuous candor. This term is usually used to criticize individuals who exhibit audacity without regard for their position or social decorum.
Malapert individuals often display a lack of tact, subtlety, or humility when engaging in conversation or interacting with others. They may arrogantly challenge or question authority, disregarding conventional rules of respect or deference. Their boldness can come across as insolent or confrontational, making them prone to creating contentious or uncomfortable situations.
In literature and drama, the character of a malapert person may be created to add tension, conflict, or provide comic relief. The term's usage has evolved over time, and while it was more commonplace in earlier periods, it can still be encountered in certain contexts, particularly to describe someone exhibiting impertinent behavior or an inappropriate level of self-assurance.
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Bold and forward in speech or action; sancy; impudent.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MALAPERT
- nalapert
- kalapert
- jalapert
- mzlapert
- mslapert
- mwlapert
- mqlapert
- makapert
- mapapert
- maoapert
- malzpert
- malspert
- malwpert
- malqpert
- malaoert
- malalert
- mala-ert
- mala0ert
- malapwrt
- malapsrt
Etymology of MALAPERT
The word "malapert" has a somewhat convoluted etymology. It ultimately derives from the Old French malapert, which itself derived from the combination of "mal" meaning "bad" and "apert" meaning "open" or "bold".
In medieval times, "malapert" was used to describe someone who was insolent, impudent, or presumptuous in an open, bold manner. It was primarily used to refer to young people who displayed improper behavior or spoke out of turn. Over time, the word transitioned into English and retained its original sense.
Today, "malapert" is a rare word that is no longer widely used in everyday language. However, it can still be encountered in certain contexts, particularly in older or more formal texts.
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