The Lexeme lachari “Coward” (Etymology)

Abstract

In the Georgian Explanatory Dictionary, the word lachari “coward” is defined as follows “lachar-i (lachrisa) mshishara, mkhdali, jabani, qalachuna (opposite of brave), e.g. rotsa ukan dakheva sashishia, mashin lacharits-ki tsin tsavao “when retreat is dangerous, even a coward goes forward” (folk), mkhned mival, vervin dagtsinebs lachari shvilis kolaze “I am going bravely as you will not be laughed for having a coward child” (V. Pshavela), maskhrad igdeben mshishrebsa da lachrebs “cowards are mocked” (A. Kazbegi), “khanjali amoighe she lacharo!” – sheutia militsielma “Take out your dagger! – a police officer charged” (M. Javakhishvili).