How Do You Spell AVAUNT?

Pronunciation: [ˈavɔːnt] (IPA)

The word "Avaunt" is an outdated term that means "go away" or "be gone." It is spelled with the letter "V," despite its pronunciation resembling the "f" sound. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /əˈvɔːnt/ . This is due to the fact that in Middle English, the letter "v" was pronounced more like a "u" or "v" depending on the context. The spelling of "Avaunt" is thus a remnant of the evolution of the English language over time.

AVAUNT Meaning and Definition

  1. Avaunt is a verb that is derived from Middle English and Old French origins. It can be defined as an emphatic imperative meaning "begone" or "go away." This archaic term is typically used to command someone to depart or to repel someone or something. Additionally, it carries connotations of forceful expulsion or rejection.

    The word avaunt often conveys a sense of authority and superiority inherent in the command. It can be used as an imperative statement to express disdain, contempt, or disgust towards someone or something, aiming to drive them away forcefully. The term carries a strong and forceful tone, imbued with a sense of power and dismissal.

    In literary works, particularly those from the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, avaunt is frequently employed to add a touch of old-world charm or to evoke a sense of historical context. It can be found in various forms of literature, including plays, poems, and novels.

    Today, the usage of avaunt has greatly diminished, and it is mostly reserved for historical or stylistic purposes. Nevertheless, it continues to hold a prominent place in the English language as a word associated with commanding someone or something to depart, with an assertive and authoritative tone.

  2. Begone; go forward.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for AVAUNT

Etymology of AVAUNT

The word "avaunt" has its roots in Middle English, and it can be traced back to the Old French word "avant", meaning "before" or "in front of". "Avant" ultimately originates from the Latin word "abante", which has a similar meaning. Over time, "avant" developed into the Middle English term "avaunt", which took on the specific connotation of "begone" or "away" in English. It is often used as a forceful command to order someone to go away or depart.

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