REYNARD Meaning and
Definition
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Reynard is a noun that is mainly used to refer to a fox in medieval European literature, particularly during the Middle Ages. It originated from the Old French word "reinarde" which meant "vixen" or "female fox". However, it eventually evolved to become a generic name for a fox of either gender.
In medieval literature, Reynard is often depicted as a cunning and sly character, known for his ability to outsmart his adversaries using deceit and trickery. The character of Reynard the Fox became popularized through a series of French medieval texts known as the Reynard cycle, which revolve around the adventures and misdeeds of Reynard. In these tales, Reynard is typically portrayed as an anthropomorphic animal, possessing human-like qualities and characteristics.
The representation of Reynard in literature became so influential that his name became synonymous with that of a cunning and shrewd individual, often used to describe a crafty or sly person. The name "Reynard" has endured throughout the centuries and continues to be used as a literary reference or allusion to these medieval tales.
Currently, the term "Reynard" can be encountered in various contexts, including discussions of medieval literature, cultural references, or as a metaphorical term to describe someone who possesses the characteristics associated with the cunning and cleverness attributed to the medieval fox character.
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Another spelling of renard, a fox, which see.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for REYNARD
- eeynard
- deynard
- feynard
- teynard
- 5eynard
- 4eynard
- rwynard
- rsynard
- rdynard
- rrynard
- r4ynard
- r3ynard
- retnard
- regnard
- rehnard
- reunard
- re7nard
- re6nard
- reybard
Etymology of REYNARD
The word "reynard" traces its origins back to Old French. It can be directly linked to the character of Reynard the Fox, a cunning and sly anthropomorphic fox from medieval European literature. The character Reynard featured in various fables and stories, dating back to the 12th century. The name "Reynard" is a variant of the Old French word "reinard", which ultimately originates from the Germanic name "Raginhard". "Ragin" means "advice" or "counsel", while "hard" means "brave" or "strong". Over time, the name "Reynard" began to be specifically associated with the cunning fox character, and eventually entered the English language.
Similar spelling words for REYNARD
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