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ruffian

[ruhf-ee-uhn]

ruffian Definition

a violent, lawless person; a tough or rowdy person.

Using ruffian: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ruffian" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The ruffian was arrested for assaulting a police officer.

  • Example

    He was known to be a ruffian in his youth.

  • Example

    The gang of ruffians caused chaos in the streets.

  • Example

    The ruffian threatened to harm anyone who crossed him.

ruffian Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ruffian

Antonyms for ruffian

Idioms Using ruffian

  • someone who has a tendency towards violent or aggressive behavior

    Example

    Although he had reformed his ways, he remained a ruffian at heart.

  • a ruffian's den

    a place where ruffians gather or hang out

    Example

    The abandoned warehouse had become a ruffian's den, with drug deals and other illegal activities taking place inside.

  • a ruffian's laugh

    a loud, coarse, and unpleasant laugh

    Example

    The ruffian's laugh echoed through the alleyway, sending shivers down the spine of anyone who heard it.

Phrases with ruffian

  • a young person who behaves in a violent or unruly way

    Example

    The young ruffian was caught vandalizing the school property.

  • behavior that is rough, violent, or aggressive

    Example

    The ruffianly behavior of the football fans led to several arrests.

  • the behavior or actions of a ruffian

    Example

    The town council passed a resolution condemning the ruffianism that had taken over the streets.

Origins of ruffian

from Middle French 'rufian', meaning 'pimp'

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Summary: ruffian in Brief

'Ruffian' [ruhf-ee-uhn] refers to a violent, lawless person, often associated with tough or rowdy behavior. It can describe a person or a group, as in 'The gang of ruffians caused chaos in the streets.' The term extends into phrases like 'ruffianly behavior,' and idioms like 'a ruffian's den,' denoting a place where ruffians gather or hang out.