Etymology: darebák

Discussion in 'General Language' started by Sova, Mar 31, 2010.

  1. Sova

    Sova Well-Known Member

    Does anyone know the etymology of the word "darebák?"
     
  2. bibax

    bibax Well-Known Member

    The root of darebák is dar (gift, Greek dóron) from the verb dáti (to give, Latin dare).

    The development is as follows:

    dar = gift
    darmo (darem) = as a gift, i.e without paying, gratis

    hence the adjective daremný = worthless -> vicious

    after a dialectical/colloquial change (like in písemný -> písebný):

    darebný = villainous
    darebák = villain
     
  3. Sova

    Sova Well-Known Member

    Thanks!
     

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