(wretches)
1.
You can refer to someone as a wretch when you feel sorry for them because they are unhappy or unfortunate. (LITERARY)
Before the poor wretch had time to speak, he was shot.
N-COUNT
2.
You can refer to someone as a wretch when you think that they are wicked or if they have done something you are angry about. (LITERARY)
Oh, what have you done, you wretch!
N-COUNT [disapproval]