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View synonyms for ruffian
ruffian
[ ruhf-ee-uhn, ruhf-yuhn ]
adjective
- Also ruffi·an·ly. tough; lawless; brutal.
ruffian
/ ˈrʌfɪən /
noun
- a violent or lawless person; hoodlum or villain
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Derived Forms
- ˈruffianly, adjective
- ˈruffianism, noun
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Word History and Origins
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Word History and Origins
Origin of ruffian1
C16: from Old French rufien , from Italian ruffiano , perhaps related to Langobardic hruf scurf, scabbiness
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Example Sentences
We know the governor, despite his popularity and his toe-dips into bipartisanship, has a reputation as a ruffian.
From The Daily Beast
Of course I had to satisfy the ruffian's insolent demands, but I did so under protest.
From Project Gutenberg
The ruffian released him at last, and, leaping to his feet, was gone before Rabecque could rise.
From Project Gutenberg
Up the slope they dashed, and past the place where Matt and Clip had had their encounter with Jem and the other ruffian.
From Project Gutenberg
It was hard work to keep his hands off the ruffian who was one of the main causes of the trouble.
From Project Gutenberg
At length one bold ruffian came near her, but was struck dead at her feet by a thunderbolt.
From Project Gutenberg
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