Definition

Describing someone who is born to parents who are not married, often considered to have a lower social status or lacking noble heritage.

Example

In the story, the hero was baseborn but proved to be noble in spirit.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new character in the book?

Yeah, I heard he was baseborn and had to prove himself.

It's interesting how he overcomes his background, though.

Absolutely! It makes his journey so much more inspiring.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Baseborn → It is formed from "base" (from Old French *bas*, meaning low or humble) and "born" (from Old English *boren*, meaning to be born). The word "baseborn" refers to someone born of low status or illegitimate birth.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'born' ('born') into a 'low' status ('base') — that's why baseborn means born of low status.

Visually Confused Words