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gueux

beggar, rogue

noun GUH Rare
People & Society Community

Also means

wretch, scoundrel

Usage Note

Gueux is an archaic or literary word for a beggar or vagabond, often carrying contempt. Historically, les Gueux were the Dutch rebels of the 16th century who reclaimed the term as a badge of pride. In modern French it survives mainly in literature and historical contexts; in casual speech it sounds antiquated.

Examples

"Les gueux dormaient sous les ponts de la ville."

Natural Translation

The beggars slept under the city's bridges.

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