Mawson, C.O.S., ed. (1870–1938). Roget’s International Thesaurus. 1922.
Class VI. Words Relating to the Sentient and Moral PowersSection IV. Moral Affections
3. Moral Conditions
941. Knave.
TRAITOR, betrayer, archtraitor, conspirator, Judas, Catiline; reptile, serpent, snake in the grass, wolf in sheep’s clothing, sneak, Jerry Sneak, squealer [slang], telltale, mischief-maker; trimmer, renegade (tergiversation) [See Tergiversation]; truant, recreant, slacker; sycophant &. (servility) [See Servility].
- O villain, villain, smiling, damned vilain.—Hamlet
- Thou little valiant, great in villainy!—King John
- He’s been true to one party, and that is himself.—Lowell
- Just for a handful of silver he left us, Just for a riband to stick in his coat.—Browning
- His honor rooted in dishonor stood, And faith unfaithful left him falsely true.—Tennyson