swashbuckler
swashbuckler Lexical Profile
swashbuckler Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A flamboyant, daring, and chivalrous adventurer or swordsman, typically one who engages in bold and romantic exploits.
"The actor became famous in the 1930s for portraying a charming swashbuckler in classic pirate films."
A genre of adventure fiction or cinema set in a historical period and featuring heroic swordsmanship, daring rescues, and romantic intrigue, or a work in this genre.
"The summer festival will screen a restored silent swashbuckler starring Douglas Fairbanks."
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the mid-16th century from 'swash' (to strike violently or make a loud clashing noise) and 'buckler' (a small round shield), originally referring to a noisy, swaggering swordsman who beat his shield to intimidate opponents.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.