Definition of: picaresque

(pik′ə·resk′) adjective
Pertaining to picaroons or rogues: specifically applied to the picaresque novel, a form having a slight plot consisting of episodes loosely connected by the hero, a rogue; originated in Spain in the 17th century, popular in France and England in the 18th century, and still used occasionally. [<Sp. picaresco roguish <pícaro a rogue; ult. origin uncertain]