The word bastard is still used relatively neutrally in historical references and historical fiction, but is usually considered offensive when used in present-day contexts to describe a child born to …

BASTARD definition: a person born of unmarried parents; an illegitimate child. See examples of bastard used in a sentence.

BASTARD definition: 1. an unpleasant person: 2. a person born to parents who are not married to each other: 3. an…. Learn more.

Definition of bastard noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

If someone describes a problem or a situation as a bastard, they mean that it is extremely annoying or difficult to deal with.

informal something extremely difficult or unpleasant: that job is a real bastard old-fashioned or offensive a person born of unmarried parents; an illegitimate baby, child, or adult

Dec 14, 2025 · (male friend): "Bastard" used as a term of endearment is particularly characteristic of Australian English usage. See Appendix:Australian English terms for people for more.

BASTARD meaning: 1 : a very bad or unpleasant man a man who you strongly dislike or hate; 2 : a man who you think is lucky, unlucky, etc.

There are 37 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word bastard, seven of which are labelled obsolete, and one of which is considered derogatory. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, …

Today, if you were called a bastard, it probably has nothing to do with whether or not your parents are married: it just means someone doesn't like you (unless they call you a magnificent …