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scaramouche (n.)
1660s, name of a cowardly braggart (supposed by some to represent a Spanish don) in traditional Italian comedy, from Italian Scaramuccia, literally "skirmish," from schermire "to fence," from a Germanic source (such as Old High German skirmen "defend"); see skirmish (n.). According to OED, a vogue word in late 17c. London due to the popularity of the character as staged there by Italian actor Tiberio Fiurelli (1608-1694).
updated on January 18, 2022
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Dictionary entries near scaramouche
scapula
scapular
scapulimancy
scar
scarab
scaramouche
Scarborough
scarce
scarceness
scarcity
scare