lurdane

English

Alternative forms

• lourdan
• lurdan
• lurden

Etymology

From Middle French lourdin (“dullard”), from lourd (“heavy”).

Noun

lurdane (plural lurdanes)

1. (obsolete) A lazy, stupid person; a sluggard.
   • 1603, Michel de Montaigne, chapter 10, in John Florio, transl., The Essayes […], book II, London: […] Val[entine] Simmes for Edward Blount […], →OCLC:

     I have also seene some excellent Lourdans, or Clownes attired in their ordinary worky-day clothes, and with a common homely countenance, affoord us all the pleasure that may be had from their art […].

   • 1828, Walter Scott, The Fair Maid of Perth:

     Remember, father Glover, your trade keeps your eyes and hands close employed, and must have your heedful care, even if this lazy lurdane wrought at it, which you know yourself he seldom does.

Anagrams

• Arundel, launder, rundale