ruffian

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The trial heard him described as a "ruffian" and a "street waif" who never stood still.

From BBC • Jan. 27, 2025

Depending on how you feel about such a pretty, pretty actor playing the role of a ruffian with a heart of gold, that might be considered a compliment to his performance.

From Salon • Dec. 21, 2019

Old Town Music Hall James Cagney’s knockout performance as a deranged ruffian with a bit of an Oedipus complex ignites director Raoul Walsh’s highly influential 1949 gangster classic White Heat.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 17, 2018

So, one wonders, what is this gentlemanly actor doing playing Billy Bigelow, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical ruffian?

From Washington Post • Nov. 10, 2016

If he was challenged—and he usually wasn’t—he would play the part of the ruffian, a hardened “Whatcha gonna do about it?” expression disguising his face.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover