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Showing results for ruffian.
Definitions

ruffian

[ruhf-ee-uhn, ruhf-yuhn] / ˈrʌf i ən, ˈrʌf yən /


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

Ramasar makes for an elegant ruffian, if not an entirely stellar Bernardo.

From Washington Post • Feb. 20, 2020

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

I could not help smiling, this child spoke like a man using the words of a ruffian.

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya




Vocabulary lists containing ruffian