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
Belisle’s imagined Shiffler is no ruffian, but a well-spoken, humble youth who wants only to care for his family and win the hand of Irene Freeman, a blue-eyed Catholic orphan.
From Slate • Sep. 1, 2021
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
‘The biggest ruffian o’ the lot, seemingly,’ answered Cotton.
From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien
Vocabulary lists containing ruffian
"The Odyssey" by Homer, Books 1–7
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Hamilton
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Treasure Island
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