Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for RAS'CAL
RAS'CAL, n. [Sax. id. This word is said to signify a lean beast.]
A mean fellow; a scoundrel; in modern usage, a trickish dishonest fellow; a rogue; particularly applied to men und boys guilty of the lesser crimes, and indicating less enormity or guilt than villain. I have sense to serve my turn in store, / And he's a rascal who pretends to more. – Dryden.
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