desperado

/despəˈrɑːdoʊ, dɛspəˈrɑːdoʊ/

Definitions

1. noun

A person who is considered to be a fugitive or outlaw, often associated with violence or lawlessness, especially in the context of the American West or Mexican folk culture.

“The town was plagued by a notorious desperado who robbed banks and stores.”

2. adjective

Characterized by a spirit of recklessness, lawlessness, or boldness, often to the point of being considered daring or foolhardy.

“The young pilot was a desperado, flying a small plane through treacherous weather conditions.”

Synonyms

  • bandido
  • bandit
  • outlaw
  • vagabond

Antonyms

  • conventional
  • law-abiding
  • respectable