Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • An English highwayman (1706-1739): Dick Turpin is the name of a famous historical figure from England, known for being a notorious highwayman—a robber who typically stole from travelers on public roads.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The legend of Dick Turpin is a popular part of English folklore.
  • Many stories portray Dick Turpin as a romantic, dashing figure, though he was a criminal.

Advanced Usage

• "Dick Turpin" as a cultural reference: The name is often used to evoke the image of a historical outlaw or a romanticized robber from a bygone era.
  • In the old tale, the masked rider was compared to Dick Turpin.

Variants and Related Words

• Highwayman (n): A person, typically on horseback, who robbed travelers on public roads. Dick Turpin is a specific, famous example of a highwayman.
• Outlaw (n): A person who has broken the law and lives outside the protection of the law.

Synonyms

• Highwayman: A direct synonym for his occupation.
• Brigand: A bandit or robber, especially one operating in a gang or in a wild area.
• Desperado: A bold or violent criminal, especially in the past.

Related Phrases

• "Stand and deliver!": This is the phrase famously associated with highwaymen like Dick Turpin, meaning to order victims to halt and hand over their valuables.
  • The robber shouted, "Stand and deliver!" in the style of Dick Turpin.

Noun

1. English highwayman (1706-1739)