Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Perdu \Per*du"\, n. [See {Perdu}, a.]
   1. One placed on watch, or in ambush.

   2. A soldier sent on a forlorn hope. --Shak.

Perdu \Per*du"\, Perdue \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.