wretch
|wretch|
/rɛtʃ/
a pitiable or despicable person
Etymology
'wretch' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'wrecca', where the root referred to 'an exile' or 'one driven out'.
'wrecca' changed into Middle English 'wrecche' (also written 'wretch'), and eventually became the modern English word 'wretch'.
Initially it meant 'exile' or 'outcast', but over time it evolved to mean 'a miserable person' and also 'a contemptible person'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a pitiable or very unfortunate person; someone in wretched circumstances.
The poor wretch had lost everything in the fire.
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Noun 2
a contemptible or despicable person (used to express moral condemnation).
He's a wretch who betrayed his friends for money.
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Noun 3
archaic: an exile, an outcast or someone driven from their home.
In old tales a wretch wandered the countryside, shunned by townsfolk.
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Verb 1
to retch or gag (rare/archaic usage); to writhe as if vomiting.
She began to wretch at the smell of the chemicals.
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Last updated: 2025/12/16 12:39