The Forgotten Word "Petard": Exploring Its History and Meaning

"Petard" is an archaic word that was once used to refer to a small explosive device, such as a grenade or a firework. The word is derived from the French word "pétard," which means "small bomb."

In modern English, the word "petard" is not commonly used, and it is mostly found in historical or literary contexts. However, the phrase "to hoist someone with their own petard" is still used to describe a situation where someone is harmed or embarrassed by their own actions or words. This phrase is derived from a line in Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," in which the character Polonius says "Thou wilt hoist thyself with thy own petard."

I like this

I dislike this

Report a content error

Share

Report a content error

Thank you! Your form was successfully submitted.

We apologize! Your form could not be submitted. Please try again later.

Submit reports

Share

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•