VILLAIN Meaning and
Definition
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A villain is a fictional or real person who displays malicious, immoral, or wicked characteristics and engages in evil or harmful actions. The term "villain" is commonly used in literature, film, and theater to denote a character who serves as the primary antagonist or adversary to the protagonist. In these contexts, a villain is often depicted as cunning, power-hungry, deceptive, and lacking in empathy or moral conscience.
The concept of a villain has evolved throughout history, with its roots tracing back to ancient mythology and folklore. In many stories, myths, and legends, villains often possess supernatural abilities or are associated with dark forces, heightening their menacing nature. However, in contemporary storytelling, villains can range from ordinary individuals driven by personal gain or revenge to complex characters with multifaceted motives.
What distinguishes a villain from other negative characters, such as an anti-hero or a mere antagonist, is the deliberate and intentional nature of their wrongdoings. Villains actively initiate and carry out actions that harm others, either directly or indirectly, and often relish in their malevolent deeds.
Villains are key elements in narratives as they provide conflict and tension, pushing the protagonist to overcome challenges and grow personally or morally. They stand in opposition to the hero's objectives, creating a compelling storytelling dynamic. Ultimately, the term "villain" encapsulates the very essence of evildoers and represents the embodiment of malevolence and opposition within the context of a literary or dramatic work.
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A vile, wicked person; a man extremely degraded or depraved, and capable or guilty of great wickedness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for VILLAIN *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for VILLAIN
Etymology of VILLAIN
The word "villain" originated from Middle English around the 14th century. Its ultimate etymology can be traced back to the Old French word "vilain", which meant a serf, peasant, or commoner. The Old French term, in turn, derived from the Late Latin word "villanus", which referred to a person who lived and worked on a country estate or villa. Over time, the connotation of the word shifted, and by the 15th century, "villain" began to be associated with someone regarded as wicked, evil, or morally depraved.
Idioms with the word VILLAIN
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villain of the piece
The idiom "villain of the piece" refers to the primary antagonist or the main source of trouble, conflict, or wrongdoing in a situation, narrative, or event. It signifies the person or entity that is responsible for creating chaos, harm, or unfavorable outcomes.
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the villain of the piece
The idiom "the villain of the piece" refers to a person who is perceived or portrayed as the main antagonist or troublemaker in a particular situation or story. This expression is commonly used to describe someone who is responsible for causing problems or conflicts, and is often used in a narrative context.
Similar spelling words for VILLAIN
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