Word of the Day: PICARESQUE

Anecdotal and adventurous

picaresque (adj) - of, pertaining to, or describing rogues, rascals, or vagabonds; adventurous or devilish [pik-uh-resk]

BREAKDOWN: The picaresque novel is an early form of Spanish literature, usually written in the first-person, relating the adventures of a pícaro, which is Spanish for rogue or adventurer. The word picaresque is likely derived from the root PIC- meaning to prick or sting in words like piquant and pike.

“I don't know where I'm going next, and for the first time in forever, I don't want to. I want my life to be picaresque. Fantastical.” ―Samantha Ellis

SOURCE: Huck Finn and Picaresque Fiction

[Our Wednesday Wildcards are fascinating and important words that are not derived from classical roots.]