villan

Villan is a term that is most often encountered as a nonstandard or archaic spelling of villain, the character type known for wrongdoing or opposition to the hero in fiction. In historical texts, variants of the word appear as well, but in modern English the standard form is villain.

Etymology and related terms: The word villain ultimately derives from Old French vilain, which originally meant a peasant or villein—someone bound to a lord in the feudal system. Over time, the sense shifted from a social designation to a moral one, describing a person who is morally bad or malicious in literature and drama. Villein and villeinage are related terms from the same root, referring to a feudal status rather than a moral character. While etymologically connected, villein denotes a social class, whereas villain denotes a character trait or role.

Usage today: In contemporary English, villan is generally considered an obsolete or incorrect spelling for villain. It may appear in historical texts or be used deliberately for stylistic or archaic effect, but standard modern usage favors villain. Outside of general usage, Villan can also occur as a proper noun, such as a surname or place name, independently of the moral sense of villain.

See also: villain, villein, villeinage.