The word “baseborn” is not commonly used in modern English, but it has a long history and still appears in literature and historical texts. Understanding the meaning and associations of this word can provide insight into the social and cultural attitudes of different eras.
Definitions
The word “baseborn” is an adjective that describes someone who is born out of wedlock or of low social status. It can also refer to something that is considered inferior or of low quality.
Origin
The word “baseborn” has Old English roots, with “base” meaning “low” or “inferior” and “born” referring to birth or origin. It was commonly used in Middle English and Early Modern English, but has fallen out of use in recent times.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, “baseborn” is defined as “born of low or mean parentage; illegitimate.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “of illegitimate birth” or “of low birth or origin.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “born to parents who are not married to each other” or “of low social status.”
Associations
In the past, being baseborn was often associated with shame and social stigma. Children born out of wedlock were considered illegitimate and faced discrimination, while those of low social status were often looked down upon by the upper classes. However, in modern times, these attitudes have shifted and being baseborn is no longer seen as a negative characteristic.
Synonyms
Synonyms for baseborn include: illegitimate, bastard, lowborn, common, plebeian, and vulgar.
Antonyms
Antonyms for baseborn include: legitimate, noble, highborn, aristocratic, and refined.
The same root words
Other words with the same root as “baseborn” include: base, baseness, and abase.
Example Sentences
- The king refused to acknowledge his baseborn son as heir to the throne.
- She was born baseborn, but worked hard to rise above her circumstances.
- The critics dismissed the film as baseborn entertainment.
- He felt a sense of shame about his baseborn origins, even though it was not his fault.
- The story of the baseborn hero who overcomes adversity has been a popular theme in literature for centuries.