caitiff

caitiff
/k;-tif/
Definition: A despicable or cowardly person; one who is base or contemptible.
Origin: Middle English, from Anglo-French catif, meaning "captive" or "wretched," derived from Latin captivus, meaning "captured."
Example: The knight vowed to confront the caitiff who had betrayed his trust and fled the battlefield in fear.
The word "caitiff" aptly describes someone who embodies cowardice, often highlighting a lack of bravery or moral fortitude. A caitiff may avoid confrontation or responsibility, opting instead for a self-serving path that disregards honor. This term is rooted in historical contexts where valor was highly esteemed, making the cowardly individual particularly contemptible. In literature and folklore, caitiffs are often portrayed as villains who betray noble causes, thereby reinforcing the notion that cowardice is not just about physical fear but also a moral failing. Thus, "caitiff" serves as a poignant synonym for coward.