The word "villain" refers to a character in a story, movie, or play who opposes the hero or protagonist and often embodies evil or immoral traits. Villains are typically responsible for creating conflict and challenges for the main character, and they can be portrayed in various ways, from purely evil to more complex figures with relatable motivations.
The word "villain" originates from the Middle English term "villain," which is derived from the Old French "villain." The French term comes from the Latin "villanus," meaning "farmhand" or "serf," originally referring to someone who worked on a country estate. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to someone of low social standing, and eventually, it came to signify a person who commits immoral acts.