churl Hear it!

churl Definition

churl (c̸hʉrl)

noun

  1. ceorl
  2. a farm laborer; peasant
  3. a surly, ill-bred person; boor
  4. a selfish or mean person

Etymology: ME cherl < OE ceorl, peasant, freeman: for IE base see corn

churl Synonyms

churl

n.

  1. A rustic or ill-bred person

    boor, yokel, bear, curmudgeon; see boor, peasant.

  2. Miser

    niggard, tightwad, skimper; see miser 2.

churl Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • befit: Of, like, or befitting a churl; boorish or vulgar.

Modifies a noun

  • status: Is the Friar, as a clergyman, probably university-educated, highlighting the Summoner's churl status, and his lack of education?