HAGGARD Meaning and
Definition
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Haggard is an adjective that describes someone's appearance, typically reflecting exhaustion, illness, or distress. It refers to a person who looks worn-out, gaunt, and tired. The term is often associated with a lack of sleep or prolonged physical and mental strain. When someone appears haggard, their face may be pale, their eyes sunken and surrounded by dark circles, and their overall demeanor may convey a sense of fatigue. This term can also apply to animals, particularly birds, that appear to be in poor condition, with disheveled feathers and a general state of unkemptness.
The word haggard originated from the Middle English word "hagard," meaning a type of immature hawk. This bird was difficult to tame and was known for its wild and unruly nature. Over time, "haggard" began to be used metaphorically to describe a person who looked wild, unmanageable, and worn out.
The term haggard can also have a figurative meaning, extending beyond physical appearance, to describe someone who is emotionally or mentally drained from enduring prolonged hardship or distress. In this sense, it implies a state of weariness or exhaustion resulting from difficult circumstances such as trauma, grief, or a demanding lifestyle.
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• Wild and rough in appearance; having sunken eyes; gaunt or lean.
• Anything wild or irreclaimable.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for HAGGARD *
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Other Common Misspellings for HAGGARD
Etymology of HAGGARD
The word "haggard" originated from Middle English, and its etymology can be traced back to the Old French term "hagard", which meant "wild, untamed". This itself was derived from the Old High German word "hagzus", meaning "wild bird of prey". The term was often used to describe a hawk or falcon that had been caught as an adult rather than being raised in captivity. Over time, this term was metaphorically extended to refer to a person who appeared untamed, worn-out, exhausted, or gaunt in appearance. Hence, "haggard" eventually came to represent someone who looked exhausted or lacking vitality.
Similar spelling words for HAGGARD
- hazard,
- hazardous,
- Hazarding,
- hagerty,
- hoggard,
- Hugged,
- hagard,
- hazardia,
- Huggard,
- Hazzard,
- haggardly,
- haggerty,
- hag-ridden,
- hagridden,
- hogged.
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