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Mamzer
MAM-zer • Noun
ממזר
Snappy Essence
A clever, slightly untrustworthy scoundrel, rogue, or bastard (often used with begrudging respect).
Nuance
Traditionally referred to an illegitimate child, but in modern slang, it is the kid or colleague who always finds the loophole, gets away with mischief, and comes out smelling like a rose.
Pro-Pronunciation Tip
Rhymes with 'ham-sir'. Keep the first syllable sharp and the second syllable quick.
Examples in the wild
Classic
"That little mamzer figured out how to pick the lock on the candy cabinet again."
Modern Yinglish
"Our competitor's CEO is a clever mamzer—he announced their update ten minutes before our press conference."
Mishegas Meter7/10