Definitions by MoonlitG

Varlet 

A Shakespearean insult that is defined by the character of Thersites in the comedic tragedy, Troilus and Cressida, as a "masculine whore" (5.1.17).

In other words, this is a 17th Century term for a manslut.

Thersites: Prithee, be silent, boy; I profit not from thy talk. Thou art said to be Achilles' male varlet.

Patroclus: Male varlet, you rogue! What's that?

Thersites: Why, his masculine whore.

(Troilus and Cressida, Act 5 Scene 1, lines 13-17)

Varlet by MoonlitG February 10, 2013