The spelling of the word "arrant" can be quite confusing. According to the IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /ˈærənt/. The initial "a" sound is pronounced short as in "cat", followed by an "r" sound, an "e" sound as in "bet", and a final "nt" sound. Despite its unusual spelling, the word "arrant" is used to describe someone who is notoriously bad or wicked. So, if you come across this rare word, now you know how to spell and pronounce it correctly.
The term "arrant" is an adjective that can be used to describe someone or something that is complete, utter, or absolute in a negative sense. It conveys the idea of being without any question or doubt, making it a strong qualifier. It derives from the Latin "arrantus," which means "clear" or "evident."
When describing a person as "arrant," it implies that they embody or display extreme behavior or characteristics, often in a negative or undesirable manner. For example, an "arrant liar" refers to someone who habitually or unabashedly tells falsehoods without any remorse or shame. Similarly, an "arrant fool" designates an individual who is profoundly irrational, lacking common sense or judgment, and consequently may make foolish decisions or engage in nonsensical behavior.
In a broader sense, "arrant" can also be used to qualify things or situations that are complete, total, or unequivocal. For instance, an "arrant failure" refers to a venture or endeavor that has fallen short in every possible way, leaving no room for success or improvement. Likewise, an "arrant absurdity" denotes a statement, idea, or concept that is utterly ridiculous or nonsensical, without any logical foundation.
Overall, "arrant" functions as a powerful word to express the extremity or certainty of negativity, representing something that is beyond dispute, doubt, or redemption in its particular context.
Notorious; habit and repute; impudent; infamous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "arrant" originated from Middle English "arrant" or "arrant", which was derived from Old French "errant". It ultimately traces back to the Latin verb "errare", meaning "to wander" or "to go astray". Over time, the sense of "errant" developed into "notorious", "infamous", or "unmitigated". The current meaning of "arrant" as "thoroughgoing" or "complete" emerged around the 16th century.