picaroon

or pick·a·roon

[ pik-uh-roon ]

noun

1. a rogue, vagabond, thief, or brigand.
2. a pirate or corsair.

verb (used without object)

1. to act or operate as a pirate or brigand.

picaroon

/ ˌpɪkəˈruːn /

noun

1. archaic.
   an adventurer or rogue

Word History and Origins

Origin of picaroon¹

1615–25; < Spanish picarón, augmentative of pícaro picaro

Word History and Origins

Origin of picaroon¹

C17: from Spanish picarón, from pícaro

Example Sentences

Picaroon, pik-a-rōōn′, n. one who lives by his wits: a cheat: a pirate.—adj.

From Project Gutenberg

Nothing but the great need for secrecy had prevented more extended inland hospitalities to the brave Americanos who had destroyed the picaroon.

From Project Gutenberg

That there picaroon that we sunk to-day was as large a craft as I ever heard o' their usin'.

From Project Gutenberg

"Hurrah!" arose in a general roar from the crew of the Noank, more than one voice adding, vociferously, the desire that was felt to smash the picaroon.

From Project Gutenberg

In this peculiar style, which may perhaps be regarded as an irregular descendant of the picaroon romance, Murger has no rival; and he is also, though on no extensive scale, a poet of great pathos.

From Project Gutenberg