\Per*du"\, n. [See {Perdu}, a.]
1. One placed on watch, or in ambush.
2. A soldier sent on a forlorn hope. --Shak.

\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.