tatterdemalion

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a dirty shabbily clothed urchin
  2. adjective worn to shreds; or wearing torn or ragged clothing
  3. adjective in deplorable condition

Etymology

First attested circa 1608. An early spelling was tatter-de-mallion, rhymed with Italian. The first part of the word is tatter; the origin of the second part is uncertain; Ebenezer Cobham Brewer suggested it might be from de maillot (“shirt”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

ragamuffin

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