[see -ISM.]
1. The characteristic behavior or manner of a blackguard; blackguardly conduct, ruffianism.
1813. Edin. Rev., XXI. 283. There is a tone of blackguardism both in his indecency and his profanity.
1828. Macaulay, Hallam, Ess. (1854), I. 87. This … blackguardism of feeling and manners.
1869. Athenæum, 28 Aug., 265. The blackguardism which is making horse-racing … detestable.
2. Blackguardly language.
1799. T. Jefferson, Writ. (1859), IV. 281. They wish to hear reason instead of disgusting blackguardism.
1827. Blackw. Mag., XXI. 754. The revolting scurrilities, and brutal blackguardism … heaped upon Lord Eldon.
