Per*du" (?), n. [See Perdu, a.]
1.
One placed on watch, or in ambush.
2.
A soldier sent on a forlorn hope.
Shak.
© Webster 1913.
Per*du", Per*due" (?), a. [F. perdu, f. perdue, lost, p.p. of perdre to lose, L. perdere. See Perdition.]
1.
Lost to view; in concealment or ambush; close.
He should lie perdue who is to walk the round.
Fuller.
2.
Accustomed to, or employed in, desperate enterprises; hence, reckless; hopeless.
"A
perdue captain."
Beau. & Fl.
© Webster 1913.