Ruffian - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A ruffian is a violent or lawless person, often a troublemaker or criminal. The term describes someone who behaves aggressively or without regard for rules or others' safety.
Definition:
A violent, lawless person, often involved in crime or disorderly behavior.
Synonyms:
thug, hooligan, brute, hoodlum
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
gentleman, law-abiding citizen
Common Collocations:
violent ruffian, gang of ruffians, drunken ruffian
Derivatives:
ruffianly, ruffianism
Usage Tips:
Use "ruffian" to describe a rough, aggressive person, often with criminal tendencies.
Common Phrases:
a band of ruffians, ruffian behavior, young ruffians
Etymology:
From Old French "rufian," meaning pimp or scoundrel; possibly of Germanic origin.
Examples:
- 1. The bar was full of drunken ruffians causing trouble.
- 2. The sheriff arrested the ruffian for vandalizing the storefront.
- 3. Parents warned their children to avoid the local ruffians after dark.
- 4. The novel’s villain was a cruel ruffian with no morals.