Meaning of the word "an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet" in English
What does "an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet
US /æn eɪp ɪz æn eɪp, ə ˈvɑːrlət ɪz ə ˈvɑːrlət, ðoʊ ðeɪ bi klæd ɪn sɪlk ɔːr ˈskɑːrlət/
UK /æn eɪp ɪz æn eɪp, ə ˈvɑːlət ɪz ə ˈvɑːlət, ðəʊ ðeɪ bi klæd ɪn sɪlk ɔː ˈskɑːlət/
Idiom
a person's essential character or low social status cannot be hidden by fine clothes or outward appearances
Example:
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He tried to act like a gentleman in that expensive suit, but an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet.
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You can't hide your true nature forever; an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet.