Picaresque is an adjective that means ‘related to the adventures of a rogue.’ The word can also be used as a noun to refer to ‘a book or movie that features the adventures of a rogue.’

The Spanish word picaro means ‘rogue.’ Our word of the day is a style of fiction or film that tells the adventures of a roguish character, meaning someone who is rough and dishonest but appealing. The term and the style of literature became popular in the early 19th century.

Example: I enjoy many picaresque novels, but sometimes it’s nice to read about someone you actually admire. The adventures of a lovable rogue don’t give you someone whose behavior you want to emulate.