bastard:

(plural: ‘bastards‘)

a child, usually a boy, of unmarried parents (i.e. a child of a man and a woman who are not married to each other);

an illegitimate child; (in this context) a whoreson;

(used as an insult or abuse) a stupid or annoying/irritating man, (in this context, the word for a woman is ‘bitch‘)

e.g.

In some societies, a bastard has no right to the property of his alleged father.

In the past, most of the kings had several bastards and though they were not given any royal titles, some of them were given minor positions in the royal court or in the royal army.

“Leave me alone, you creepy bastard!” said the woman to the old man who had been annoying her with his dirty jokes. (in this context, she meant ‘a mean, annoying or irritating man’)

Note: ‘Bastard’ is also used for (a) something that is very difficult or unpleasant, e.g. ‘This task is a real bastard!’ and in this context, ‘bitch’ is also often used (b) something that is not original or genuine — a copy or imitation, e.g. ‘He bought a bastard painting, but boasted that it was genuine.’
‘Bastard’ or ‘son of a bitch’ is also used as an affectionate term or a form of address for fun to refer to a person who has a very close relationship with the speaker, e.g. “John said to his friend, ‘You lucky bastard!’”
Most people take exception to using this expression ‘bastard’ in formal situations, even in causal conversations, therefore, it is advisable not to use it quite often unless your listener is your close friend and there no other people around to overhear your conversation!


About the Author:BC Kumar

BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.

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